For Release at 1:30 PM, Monday Nov. 15
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Daily Aspirin May Not Be Necessary for People on Anti-Inflammatory Drugs
Traditional non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), commonly used to treat the symptoms of arthritis, prevent blood clotting just as much as a daily dose of aspirin does, according to research presented at the American College of Rheumatology Annual Scientific Meeting Nov. 13--17 in Boston, Mass.
The class of drugs known as NSAIDs includes ibuprofen, naproxen and ketoprofen. NSAIDs are used to treat pain and inflammation, hallmark symptoms of many kinds of arthritis. Aspirin is commonly used to protect against strokes and other vascular diseases caused by blood clotting. However, it is important to note that a subcategory of NSAIDs called COX-2 inhibitors do not have this effect on clotting and cannot replace daily aspirin use.
In the study, 25 healthy volunteers were administered 200 mg a day of ketoprofen. Clotting was reduced by at least half in all 25 volunteers after the first week. At that point, the volunteers received either 325 mg a day of aspirin or placebo in addition to the ketoprofen. After another week, tests showed no change in the level of clotting in either group.
"Several available NSAIDs may be used alone as anti-thrombotic drugs in patients who have musculoskeletal conditions and are at risk for thromboembolic events, thereby avoiding the toxicity of NSAID--aspirin combination therapy," said senior investigator, Elliot D. Rosenstein, MD, of St. Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston, New Jersey.
The American College of Rheumatology is the professional organization for rheumatologists and health professionals who share a dedication to healing, preventing disability and curing arthritis and related rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases. For more information on the ACR's annual meeting, see http://www.rheumatology.org.
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