U.S. researchers at the Baylor College of Medicine in Houston reported on January 4, 2005, on their study of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDS. Among 21 patients taking a range of drugs such as ibuprofen (also known as Motrin) or naproxen (also known as Naprosyn or Aleve) for more than three months, 71% suffered injury to the small intestine, as compared to a control group taking either an unrelated painkiller or none at all.

The Baylor College findings were reported in the January issue of the journal Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology. “We saw some ulcers and lots of erosions,” said Dr. David Y. Graham in a telephone interview with Reuters Health.

Source: Maggie Fox, “Painkillers Damage Intestine, U.S. Expert Says”, Reuters Health, January 4, 2005.