Table 1 Strategies to decrease the gastrointestinal risk of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

2.

Avoid use if untreated Helicobacter pylori present

3.

Avoid combined use with corticosteroids or aspirin

4.

Use with proton pump inhibitors (alternatives include a double dose of H2 blockers or misoprostol)

5.

Choose benign NSAID/cyclooxygenase-2

6.

Avoid use in persons with prior gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding ulcers, upper GI surgery