NSAID pain relievers like aspirin and ibuprofen can cause stomach upset, heartburn and stomach ulcers. Find out how to reduce the risk of these side effects while taking NSAIDs.
VIDEO TRANSCRIPT
When your joints are achy from arthritis, medications known as NSAIDS can bring welcome relief.
NSAIDS, which stands for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, include aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen.
But that pain relief can come at a price to your stomach. Extended use can cause heartburn or make it worse in people who already have the condition. It can also lead to a stomach ulcer, which in some cases may bleed.
To reduce the risk of side effects like these, take the lowest possible dose, for the shortest period of time. Changing when and how you take your pills can also cut down on stomach upset. Instead of popping them in the morning, try taking them in the afternoon or at bedtime.
Make sure you take the medication with a glass of water and something to eat. You don’t need a full meal. Some fruit or yogurt is enough.
Avoid alcohol and cigarettes while you’re on NSAIDS. they can make stomach problems even worse.
Or you could try switching to a different NSAID.
The pain reliever acetaminophen generally does not cause stomach upset. However, unlike NSAIDS, it doesn’t reduce inflammation so it may not be as effective for certain forms of arthritis.
Before you take an NSAID, go through your whole list of drugs with your doctor. Taking some medicines, like blood thinners, with NSAIDS can increase your bleeding risk. You may need to switch drugs to avoid an interaction.
In addition, your doctor may recommend one of several prescription medications that can help protect your stomach while you’re on an NSAID.
Finally, consider trying other pain relief methods such as massage, acupuncture, or heat.
They might allow you to cut back on NSAIDS and avoid their side effects and help you feel better in the process.