Use of NSAIDs

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Certain populations, particularly the elderly, are vulnerable to complications from the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Rates of hospital admission for perforated ulcer are rising in these patients, who have an associated risk of gastrointestinal hemorrhage and death. Studies have shown that some NSAIDs cause less harm to the stomach and duodenum than others and that prostaglandin E analogues given concomitantly may protect the mucosa.

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Notes on contributors

Russell I. Heigh

Russell I. Heigh, MD Dr Heigh is consultant, division of gastroenterology, Mayo Clinic Scottsdale, Scottsdale, Arizona, and assistant professor of medicine, Mayo Medical School, Rochester, Minnesota.