Will taking NSAIDs daily hurt me?

[green_the_fish]

I've been taking NSAIDs on a daily basis for months. I'm still in constant pain, even when I take them, but I think that they help a little. I'm talking about Ibuprofen (sp?), Motrin, Advil, etc. I usually don't exceed 200 mg in one day.
Will taking these OTC painkillers on a daily basis hurt me? I've heard that there are good side effects to doing this, such as improving blood flow in the heart, but I've also heard that there are very bad side effects. I'd really hate to have stomach ulcers, liver disease, or anything like that on top of my chronic pelvic pain.
Do you think continuing to take NSAIDs on a daily basis will hurt me?
I hope not, because I don't know if I'm willing to stop right now :(

[icnmgrjill]

I think that you'll need to look this up in the PDR and/or talk with your pharmacist & doctor about your concerns. Liver function can be an issue with higher doses for SOME people.

Jill

[green_the_fish]

Thanks, Jill :)
I wish I could talk to my doctor, but I don't have any health insurance right now :(
Dumb question- what's the PDR? :bonk:

[ICNDonna]

Jill is right --- and one thing I stress is that it is important to read the literature that comes with over the counter medications --- and never exceed the recommended dosage without the guidance of a medical professional.

Donna

[ICNDonna]

The letters PDR stand for Physicians Desk Reference --- it's a book that gives information about medications, including recommended dosages and potential side effects. You should be able to find one at your local library.

Donna

[kadi]

Are you in CA? As a minor, you can get extremely low cost health insurance ($0-$9. a month) if your parent/guardian makes less than a certain amount of money. Let me know if you are in CA & I'll get the info to you... If you're not in CA, go to your high school counselor & ask if there is similar health coverage available in your state or county. (At my high school 2 times a year the teachers make this info available to students).

Wish I had an answer to your question - I don't know about the amounts of NSAIDs, they flare me up horribly...

Wishing you better days soon.

[green_the_fish]

I'm not in CA, I'm in OH. My mom and I are trying to apply for low-income govt. insurance in our area. I hope I can get it soon!