Magnesium Relieves NSAID Gastrointestinal Distress

Rheumatism Researchers at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center recently concluded from a double-blind, placebo-based study that naproxen taken with fast-acting magnesium has comparable upper gastrointestinal (UGI) tolerability with celecoxib taken by patients with osteoarthritis.¹ Good news for patients who need affordable, regular and long-term arthritic pain relief.

While over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can relieve acute and chronic arthritis symptoms, NSAIDs also have adverse gastrointestinal side effects. To minimize those side effects Pfizer developed Celecoxib, a prescription-based NSAID for treating osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, acute pain, painful menstruation and menstrual symptoms among other disorders. Celecoxib is marketed under the brand name Celebrex for arthritis.²

Why does magnesium reduce gastrointestinal distress?

Magnesium compounds (i.e., magnesium sulfate, magnesium hydroxide, magnesium oxide, etc. ) are considered “bases” – the chemical opposite of an acid. When digested, magnesium compounds (e.g. Milk of Magnesia) react with stomach acid to neutralize the acid.

Supplement NSAIDs with Magnesium

If you suffer from arthritis or take any over-the-counter NSAIDs for menstrual cramps and other types of short term pain, consider taking your NSAIDs with a magnesium supplement to avoid ulcers. As always, let your physicians know what supplements, prescription and over-the-counter medications that you are taking.

Sources:

Cryer BL, Sostek MB, Fort JG, Svensson O, Hwang C, Hochberg MC, "A fixed-dose combination of naproxen and esomeprazole magnesium has comparable upper gastrointestinal tolerability to celecoxib in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee: Results from two randomized, parallel-group, placebo-controlled trials," Annals of Medicine Epub October 2011.
Highlights of Prescribing Information, January 2011, <http://media.pfizer.com/files/products/mg_celebrex.pdf> (accessed December 15, 2011).