A study sponsored by the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) uncovered that an alarming number of people are unaware of the side effects and consequences of taking over-the counter and prescription drugs for pain. This study also disclosed that one fourth of the participants exceeded the recommended dose.

Of 807 people surveyed who used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen or aspirin), 54 percent were unaware of the side effects of these drugs and 18 percent had previously experienced side effects. Furthermore, 30 percent of those surveyed did not feel that they were at risk.

This study, which was published in the November 2005 issue of the Journal of Rheumatology, revealed the danger of uninformed patients self-medicating or relying on this class of drugs for pain relief. This study also underscored the need to educate patients in alternative methods for managing pain.

The use of these drugs is incredibly widespread; 36,000,000 people take NSAIDs everyday in the United States . A common side effect of taking NSAIDs is bleeding and ulceration involving the gut. This side effect kills 16,500 people per year and hospitalized nearly 103,000.

The American Gastroenterological Association has created the REDUCE (Risk Education to Decrease Ulcer Complications and their Effects from NSAIDs) Campaign in an effort to educate patients and doctors about the ill effects of using NSAIDs.

More information for consumers about the possible risks associated with NSAIDs is available at REDUCE.