Following the publication of a new study by the British Medical Journal (BMJ) that estimates the economic impact and prevelance of hazardous NSAID
prescribing in England, the Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) has underscored the pressing need for enhanced safety measures in medication management.
The study, led by RPS Fellow Rachel Elliott, reveals significant health and financial costs associated with the high-risk prescribing of oral non-steroidal
anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) among vulnerable populations.
James Davies, Director for England at the RPS, emphasised the critical findings of the research.
"Improving the safety of NSAID prescribing requires a multi-pronged approach, that educates and supports prescribers on the risk, as well as uses the skills
of pharmacists in the primary care team to help identify higher risk patients and prescribing scenarios," Davies remarked.
The study highlights that NSAIDs, while effective in managing pain and inflammation, are associated with serious adverse events, including gastrointestinal
bleeding, renal dysfunction, and cardiovascular issues.