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Safe Use of Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Gastrointestinal and Cardiovascular Considerations

March 14, 2026

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly prescribed for musculoskeletal pain, inflammatory conditions, and fever. While generally effective, their use is associated with potential adverse effects, particularly involving the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and cardiovascular system.

Gastrointestinal risks include dyspepsia, peptic ulcer disease, and GI bleeding. These risks are higher in older adults, patients with a history of ulcers, and those receiving concurrent anticoagulants, corticosteroids, or antiplatelet therapy. In selected patients, gastroprotective strategies such as proton pump inhibitors may be considered.

Certain NSAIDs have also been associated with increased cardiovascular risk, particularly in patients with established cardiovascular disease or multiple risk factors. Careful evaluation of individual risk profiles, lowest effective dosing, and shortest appropriate treatment duration are recommended.

Healthcare professionals play a key role in counseling patients, reviewing comorbidities and concomitant medications, and ensuring that NSAID therapy aligns with current clinical guidelines and safety considerations.

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