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Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs

Differential Use in Older Patients

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Summary

The nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used medications, particularly in elderly patients, for both rheumatic and nonrheumatic conditions. Elderly patients are more prone to the adverse effects of these agents. Adverse effects are seen in almost every organ system, but the gastrointestinal tract is most frequently affected. Elderly patients are more at risk of adverse effects from a wide range of pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic interactions compared with younger patients. By cautious prescribing, including giving due consideration to these factors, the risks associated with NSAIDs in elderly patients can be minimised.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. The University of New South Wales, St Vincent’s Hospital, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, 2010, Australia

    Laila Girgis &  Peter Brooks

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  1. Laila Girgis
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  2. Peter Brooks
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Girgis, L., Brooks, P. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs. Drugs & Aging 4, 101–112 (1994). https://doi.org/10.2165/00002512-199404020-00003

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