Safe Medications for Inflamation in the Back
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Dear Ask The Doctor: What is a safer medicine my husband can take for inflamation in his back(L1 and L2)disc? His dr. gave him NAPROXEN I looked it up and the side-afects (long term ) are not exseptible,What is the alternatives?
Dear Gina: Before we answer your question it is important to know a few facts of naproxen. Naproxen is in the category of Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, usually abbreviated as NSAIDs which are drugs with analgesic, antipyretic (lowering an elevated body temperature and relieving pain without impairing consciousness) and, in higher doses, with antiinflammatory effects (reducing inflammation). NSAIDs are usually indicated for the treatment of acute or chronic conditions where pain and inflammation are present. The widespread use of NSAIDs has meant that the adverse effects of these relatively safe drugs have become increasingly prevalent. The two main adverse drug reactions associated with NSAIDs relate to stomach side effects and kidney effects of the agents. These side effects can lead to stomach bleeding and ulcer perforation. In recent studies it has also been linked to a increase in the risk of myocardial infaraction. These effects are dose-dependent. The concerns arise if your husband has had any past medical history of ulcers and or kidney disease. Also if your husband is taking a very high dose and over a long period of time are situations where there is a concern. If he is otherwise a healthy individual without any medical conditions it is fine to use naproxen. Now, about alternatives such as Ibuprofen and aspirin they are all in the same category as NSAIDS and with a very similar profile of risk and benefit ratio. The only other pain medications is acetaminophen which is not a antiinflammatory that can be used but will not decrease any of the inflammation in the back but could help with some pain relief. Also as another alternative is the many different kinds of rubs that you can get over the counter may also help. Hope this information helps both of you. |
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Last Updated ( Friday, 10 September 2010 )
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