Over-the-counter painkillers: Argentine Society of Gastroenterology issues strong warning

Over-the-counter painkillers: Argentine Society of Gastroenterology issues strong warning

2024-11-14 18:33:00

Although nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen-or-paracetamol/” title=”What to take if I have Omicron: Ibuprofen or Paracetamol?”>NSAIDs) are a common tool in fighting pain, experts are concerned that their incorrect and overuse increases the likelihood of serious events, including stomach ulcers and intestinal bleeding.

Over-the-counter painkillers: Argentine Society of Gastroenterology issues strong warning

In Argentina, 85% of adults use over-the-counter pain relievers, with about two-thirds using them monthly. This trend toward overuse of NSAIDs is concerning because although they are effective and safe medications, if abused, they can irritate the gastrointestinal lining and increase the risk of ulcers, bleeding, and other digestive problems.

Which drugs are covered by this warning:

nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs They are a group of medications that include substances such as ibuprofen, diclofenac, naproxen, and aspirin. These medications are effective and safe and can reduce inflammation and pain. Its uses are common in rheumatoid and osteoarthritis, muscle pain, headaches, migraines, and fever.

latest argentine society of gastroenterology Disseminate information to raise awareness about the responsible use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, as many times these drugs are taken in overdose without medical advice, even on a daily basis. In some cases they are also used Mistaking it as a form of prevention “just in case it causes pain”.

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In case of inappropriate use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugsSAGE gastroenterologists experts warn that they are often used in situations where the ideal drug should not be an NSAID.as it may aggravate conditions such as crampy abdominal pain. For this type of disorder, antispasmodics are recommended because they relax the painful contractions (spasms) without worsening the abdominal pain.

The latest publication of the Argentine Society of Gastroenterology confirms the long-term or incorrect use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs May cause serious cardiovascular, urinary and gastrointestinal complications, especially in people with risk factors Examples include a history of ulcers, advanced age, or taking other medications.

Main recommendations

  • Consult a doctor.
  • Read the drug package insert and learn about contraindications and possible adverse reactions.
  • Follow the dosage, duration of treatment and instructions from your health professional and leaflets.
  • Pay attention to symptoms and consult your doctor if there are any warning signs.

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Over-the-counter painkillers: Argentine Society of Gastroenterology issues strong warning


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What are the common misconceptions about the safety ‍of NSAIDs that contribute to their⁢ misuse in Argentina? ⁤

**Interview with Dr. ‌Maria Gonzalez, Gastroenterologist and Member of the ​Argentine Society of Gastroenterology**

**Editor:** Thank you for joining us ​today, Dr. Gonzalez. There’s growing concern about the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory ⁤drugs (NSAIDs) in Argentina, particularly ‍regarding their overuse. ⁢Can you explain why this is such ⁢a pressing issue?

**Dr. Gonzalez:** Thank you for having me. Indeed, the statistics are alarming. In Argentina, around ⁤85% of adults utilize over-the-counter⁢ pain‍ relievers, and about ⁣two-thirds ⁣do so ‌monthly. While​ NSAIDs like ibuprofen, diclofenac, naproxen, and aspirin are effective in treating⁤ conditions like arthritis and​ migraines, their misuse can lead to significant health⁤ problems‌ such as stomach ulcers and intestinal ‌bleeding.

**Editor:** What causes people to ⁢misuse these medications, and what are the common misconceptions?

**Dr. ​Gonzalez:** Many people believe that taking NSAIDs is​ completely safe, especially ‌since they are readily available without a ‍prescription. There’s a common misconception that they can be taken preventively—essentially “just in case” pain occurs. This leads to doses that ⁣exceed the recommended ⁣guidelines, ‌significantly increasing the risk of gastrointestinal⁣ and other complications.

**Editor:** What specific health risks are associated with the long-term or incorrect use of ‌NSAIDs?

**Dr. Gonzalez:** Long-term or inappropriate use of NSAIDs ⁢can lead to ‍severe complications, particularly in individuals with underlying risk factors. These include stomach ulcers, cardiovascular issues, and urinary complications. For example, ⁤patients ‍with a history of ulcers are particularly vulnerable and should avoid NSAIDs unless medically advised.

**Editor:** What guidelines does the Argentine Society ⁤of Gastroenterology recommend for the responsible use of NSAIDs?

**Dr. Gonzalez:** We advocate for a more cautious approach. It’s vital for individuals to consult with healthcare professionals before taking NSAIDs, especially for chronic conditions. We also emphasize that alternatives ⁣exist ⁣for certain types of pain. For ⁤example, ⁢antispasmodics can be more appropriate for‍ crampy abdominal pain, as they can help without exacerbating the condition.

**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Gonzalez, for shedding light on this ⁣important issue. Any final advice for⁢ our readers?

**Dr. Gonzalez:** Yes, my final piece of advice is the importance of education and awareness. Always read labels,⁣ follow dosing guidelines, and consult your healthcare provider​ when in ‍doubt. ​Responsible use of medications is‌ crucial ⁢to avoid adverse health effects.

**Editor:**‌ Thank you for your insights, Dr. Gonzalez. It’s essential information that can help improve public health awareness around NSAID use in Argentina.

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