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What are NSAID-Associated Ulcers?
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NSAID-Associated Stomach Ulcers

NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are medications, such as aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen, commonly used to treat arthritis. NSAIDs make up one of the most widely used classes of medications taken by arthritis patients. However, continuous use of NSAIDs is associated with an increased risk of stomach ulcers.

What Causes NSAID-Associated Stomach Ulcers?

NSAIDs can affect the mucus lining of the stomach, causing ulcers. Many people with NSAID-associated stomach ulcers don't complain of symptoms. That's why it's important to talk to your doctor.

Common side effects of NSAIDs include nausea and stomach upset. In addition, all NSAIDs are associated with an increased risk of stomach ulcers. Only your doctor can diagnose an NSAID-associated ulcer.

Recurring NSAID-Associated Stomach Ulcers

In a clinical study of patients with a history of stomach ulcer taking an NSAID, nearly half of the patients not receiving risk reduction treatment had an NSAID-associated stomach ulcer by week 12. If you have a history of stomach ulcer, sticking to your prescribed treatment plan can help you reduce the likelihood that your stomach ulcer will come back while continuing your NSAID use. Your results may vary. Controlled studies do not extend beyond 12 weeks.

Important Safety Information for Prevacid

If you suffer from persistent heartburn two or more days a week, despite treatment and diet changes, it could be acid reflux disease. Prescription Prevacid Capsules and Prevacid SoluTab (lansoprazole) Orally Disintegrating Tablets are used for the treatment of acid reflux disease including erosive esophagitis and for maintenance of healed erosive esophagitis. Individual results may vary. Most erosions heal in 4–8 weeks. You should not take Prevacid if you are allergic to Prevacid or any of its ingredients. Prevacid may not be right for everyone and has a low occurrence of side effects in adults including diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea and constipation. Symptom relief does not rule out other serious stomach conditions. Before taking Prevacid, tell your doctor if you are taking ampicillin, atazanavir, digoxin, iron, ketoconazole or warfarin. Talk to your doctor or healthcare provider to see if Prevacid is right for you.

Please see the accompanying Complete Prescribing Information for more information and talk to your healthcare provider.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.