Low-Dose Aspirin and NSAIDs - A Safe Combination for Arthritis Patients?

Many patients are prescribed low-dose aspirin as a cardioprotective treatment but they are already taking an NSAID (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug) to treat arthritis. Is it safe to take both? Is there any action that should be taken -- such as not taking them together to ensure safe use? Should lab tests be routinely performed to monitor the kidneys or liver? Or, is it a perfectly safe combination -- low-dose aspirin and NSAIDs -- and no worries?

According to rheumatologist Scott J. Zashin, MD, there are two potential drug interactions between aspirin and NSAIDs. Both can increase the risk of bleeding, including bleeding ulcers -- a potential life-threatening complication. The complication is more likely to occur in patients who have other risk factors for ulcers as well. Learn more about decreasing the risks associated with low-dose aspirin and NSAIDs and about other treatment options too in Low-Dose Aspirin and NSAIDs - A Safe Combination for Arthritis Patients?

Related Resources:

• 10 Ways to Ensure Drug Safety
• Aspirin - 10 Things You Need to Know
• NSAIDs - 10 Things You Need to Know
• Two NSAIDs Are Not Better Than One
• Gastrointestinal Bleeding - Don't Ignore Your Symptoms

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