Too Much Aspirin Can Cause Internal Bleeding

GI Bleeding, if it occurs, is always serious and potentially a life or death type of situation. As at times, GI Bleeding is very slow to develop, over the course of years sometimes, there may be no symptoms, until an emergency exists.

The use of NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs such as Motrin), is the second highest cause of gastritis and GI bleeding. Usually, this damage occurs with the routine and recurrent intake of high doses. The risk seems to be dose dependent; therefore, as the daily dosage increases, so does the risk for gastritis and bleeding.

As NSAIDs and aspirin are beneficial with eliminating the symptoms of many chronic diseases, and over the counter NSAIDs are available; it is important for the patient to let his physician know what he is taking and how much. If problems are recognized early, more than likely your physician can reverse or minimize the effects.

Some geriatric physicians feel that NSAIDs should never be given to elderly patients; not only because of the potential for gastritis and GI Bleed, but the potential for kidney “shut-down”.

Over-the-Counter NSAIDs and common doses are identified below:

OTC Brand

Generic Name

H4>Dose

Actron

ketoprofen

1-6 pills/day (up to 75 mg/day)

Advil

ibuprofen

1-6 pills/day (up to 1,200 mg/day)

Aleve

naproxen sodium

1-3 pills/day* (up to 660 mg/day)

Bayer

aspirin

1-12 pills/day (up to 4,000 mg/day)

Ecotrin

aspirin

1-12 pills/day (up to 4,000 mg/day)

Excedrin

aspirin, acetaminophen, and caffeine

2-8 pills/day (up to 2,000 mg/day

Motrin IB

ibuprofen

1-6 pills/day (up to 1,200 mg/day)

Nuprin

ibuprofen

1-6 pills/day (up to 1,200 mg/day)

Orudis KT

ketoprofen

1-6 pills/day (up to 75 mg/day)

* 2-pill limit for patients over age 65