PROPHYLAXIS AND THERAPY OF NSAID-INDUCED ULCERS - FACTS VERSUS FANTASIES

Non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are responsible for dysp eptic symptoms in more than 50% of patients. Symptomatic ulcers and ul cer complications occur in less than 5%. In order to avoid these compl ications during prolonged treatment, the lowest possible NSAID dose sh ould be chosen. Furthermore, NSAIDs can often be replaced by paracetam ol. Prophylaxis of NSAIDs and ulcers with misoprostol is only indicate d in a small risk group of patients (eg: advanced age, history of ulce r and for gastrointestinal bleeding, concurrent corticosteroid treatme nt and significant comorbidity) and only if NSAIDs are given for sever al months. NSAIDs-induced ulcers should be treated with omeprazol in a dose of 20-40 mg daily.