Risks multiplied by drug combinations
Dr. Porter highlighted how the risks increase with high dosages or prolonged use :
- those who take an NSAID are 4 times more likely to have a gastric hemorrhage than those who do not use them;
- the association with an SSRI antidepressant brings the risk up to 7 times ;
- the combination of NSAIDs and steroids makes it rise to as much as 12 times .
Doctor’s advice to reduce damage
To limit the risks, Porter recommends combining anti-inflammatory drugs with gastric protectors such as omeprazole or lansoprazole , which reduce the impact on the stomach.
Furthermore, for self-medication, he suggests preferring paracetamol to ibuprofen or aspirin:
“It may not be effective for everyone, but it is much safer, unless you exceed the recommended dosages.”
A further recommendation concerns combined use: those already taking an NSAID should avoid aspirin , as it further increases the risk of ulcers and bleeding due to its effect on clotting.
Anti-inflammatory drugs are useful and popular, but they are not without risks. Dr. Porter’s warning urges caution: don’t overuse them, don’t combine them without medical advice, and always protect your stomach when necessary.
