RESEARCH - Greater risk of GI bleeding with slow-release NSAIDs

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Greater Risk Of GI Bleeding With Slow-Release NSAIDs

MedicalNewsToday.com

Article Date: 28 May 2010 - 0:00 PDT

A study conducted at the Spanish Centre for Pharmacoepidemiological

Research revealed that the risk of gastrointestinal complications due

to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use varies by specific

NSAID administered and by dosage. The study further determined that

NSAIDs with a long half-life or slow-release formulation are

associated with a greater risk of GI bleeding or perforation. Study

findings are published in the June issue of Arthritis & Rheumatism, a

journal of the American College of Rheumatology.

NSAIDs such as Advil, Motrin and Aleve, are drugs that treat pain and

inflammation by blocking the action of two cyclooxygenase (COX)

enzymes. COX-2 promotes inflammation, but COX-1 protects the lining of

the stomach. If an NSAID inhibits both COX-1 and COX-2, GI bleeding

and ulcers can result.

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Read the full article here:

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/190116.php

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