NSAIDs

Question 1

Effect of NSAIDs?

Answer 1

Deplete mucosal prostaglandins by inhibiting the cyclo-oxygenase (COX) pathway which leads to mucosal damage

Question 2

How many forms of cyclo-oxygenase?

Answer 2

2 forms of COX

Question 3

What way should the risk of ulceration due to regular NSAIDs be managed?

Answer 3

• Stop the NSAIDs
• Give a PPI
• Start H. Pylori eradication

Question 4

What happens if you can’t stop an NSAID?

Answer 4

NSAID with low GI side effects at the lowest dose possible if there is no CV risk, a COX2 NSAID can be used