British physician Mark Porter , a well-known correspondent for The Times, has issued a clear warning about the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin and ibuprofen .
According to the expert, these drugs, taken daily by millions of people for pain and inflammation, can increase the risk of gastric ulcers, bleeding, and other serious complications .
Every year, in the UK alone, tens of thousands of patients are hospitalized for gastric or duodenal ulcers. “Complications, such as bleeding and perforation, can be fatal,” Porter said, “and bleeding remains the greatest threat because it is much more common.”
Why anti-inflammatory drugs irritate the stomach
Aspirin, ibuprofen, and other NSAIDs are commonly used for headaches, fever, arthritis, and muscle pain , but their metabolism can irritate the gastric mucosa, causing serious damage.
Among the most common side effects:
- indigestion and heartburn ;
- increased blood pressure;
- increased risk of heart attacks and strokes ;
- possible kidney damage and worsening of asthma.
Risks multiplied by drug combinations
Anti-inflammatory drugs: British doctor warns of stomach and heart risks
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.
