Maximising safety when prescribing non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

Current knowledge on side-effects of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is reviewed. These occur most commonly in the gastro intestinal tract and include peptic ulceration and haemorrhage as well as effects on the small and large bowel. Renal effects with many manifestations are also increasingly described. Photosensitivity is the most common adverse dermatological effect. The role of various NSAIDs in causing asthma is now well recognised. Many less common side-effects occur, the most significant of which is marrow aplasia. Phenylbutazone and indomethacin are rarely but definitely associated with this, but other NSAIDs including ibuprofen are also suspected, but unproven, causes. A strategy for minimising side-effects is outlined. Where there is not a strong indication for use of an NSAID, local physical measures or a pure analgesic can be substituted. If an NSAID is really necessary, it is best to commence with a drug of lesser potency in the first instance, unless the patient is suffering from a severe inflammatory disorder. Indomethacin and piroxicam should be reserved for when other NSAIDs have not been effective. Patients who have a past or present history of peptic ulceration but still need to continue their NSAID therapy, should combine it with an anti-ulcer drug. In the case of younger patients a H2 receptor antagonist is the drug of first choice, whereas in the older patient a mucosal protective agent such as sucralfate is preferred. In the event of ulcer relapse, combination with a prostaglandin analogue is the next step. The growing awareness of side-effects with NSAIDs suggests that monitoring of patients commencing NSAIDs and on long-term treatment, should be increasingly practiced.