Abstract

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are highly effective in relieving the symptoms of arthritis, but several NSAIDs have been withdrawn in recent years because of serious adverse reactions. The balance between their benefits and risks is therefore being widely reappraised. Concern is greatest about the elderly, who receive most prescriptions of NSAIDs, and who are reputed to be at greater risk. We here attempt to assess the risk and to compare the safety of the NSAIDs now in use for 6 years or more.