NSAIDs (over-the-counter or prescription) may not be appropriate for everyone and some people should avoid taking them. Your health-care provider may recommend you avoid using NSAIDs if you have:
- had an allergic reaction to NSAIDs or acetylsalicylic acid (ASA)
- asthma that worsens while taking ASA
- had a recent ulcer in the stomach or small bowel
- kidney or liver disease
- significant congestive heart failure
- had a recent heart attack or stroke or experienced serious chest pain related to heart disease
NSAIDs should be used with caution if you:
- are over age 65
- have had a previous stomach ulcer
- are taking blood thinners such as warfarin (Coumadin®)
- taking multiple NSAIDs (including low-dose ASA)
- have significant risk factors for heart attack or stroke (using NSAIDs may increase this risk)
You must be careful to avoid taking more than one NSAID at a time (over-the-counter and prescription) as this will increase your risk of developing a stomach ulcer. The only exception would be if you are taking low dose
acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) for cardiovascular protection. ASA (e.g., Aspirin®) is not commonly used or recommended for treatment of arthritis pain.
Let your health-care provider know if you have signs of stomach bleeding, which may include vomit that looks like it has “coffee grounds” in it, vomiting blood or black, tarry stools; or if you have any stomach pain,
nausea, heartburn or indigestion.
NOTE: Please speak with your health-care provider before starting an NSAID to determine whether or not NSAID therapy is appropriate for you.