[Side effects of non-steroidal antirheumatic agents in the lower intestinal tract]

Side effects of non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) on the lower intestinal tract are reviewed. NSAID use may exacerbate or reactivate quiescent inflammatory bowel disease. There are distinct types of NSAID-induced enterocolitis: ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, and necrotizing enterocolitis in premature infants. It is also suggested that NSAIDs may play an etiological role in collagenous colitis. Furthermore, NSAIDs may induce ulcerations, perforations and strictures in the small as well as large bowel. Occult and severe blood loss from lower intestinal tract under treatment with NSAIDs should be kept in mind.