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For Immediate Release
The Aspirin Foundation Of America
Responds To Claims Of Danger
Associated With NSAID Use
June 18, 1999
WASHINGTON, D.C. (June 18, 1999) -- The Aspirin Foundation of America (AFA) responded
today to a review article in the June 17 issue of The New England Journal of Medicine
claiming that aspirin and other nonsteroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) could be a
health threat.
AFA warned that the article is susceptible to misinterpretation by the consumer media and
that media coverage has failed to note the distinction between the high-dose, long-term use
of NSAIDs for people with rheumatoid arthritis and other disorders, and low dose
over-the-counter (OTC) use. AFA advised the millions of Americans who take aspirin,
ibuprofen or other NSAIDs for health reasons to consult their physicians before altering their
regimens.
The benefits of aspirin use in treating pain, as well as in fighting a host of maladies, including
heart disease and stroke, are well known and well documented, AFA stated. Aspirin use
continues to be one of the most inexpensive and most effective forms of fighting various
types of disorders.
"Aspirin, ibuprofen and other NSAIDs are some of the safest and most recommended
medications for the treatment of a wide range of ailments, from the pain and inflammation
associated with arthritis to the relief of headaches to cardiovascular protection. As with any
medication, it is important that consumers follow directions on the label and the advice of
their doctors," said Dr. Thomas Bryant, president of the AFA.
"The goal of consumer education should be to provide a reliable source of objective
information while keeping in mind the consumer's best interest," said Dr. Bryant. "The news
media have a responsibility to present health information to consumers in a way that
accurately interprets the data. Consumers should keep in mind the distinction between
high-dose, long-term use for serious disorders and low-dose OTC use for minor aches and
pains and cardiovascular protection. Aspirin has a long history of safe and effective use as
an analgesic at OTC doses."
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Contact:
Caroline Perrin
807 National Press Building, Washington, DC 20036
Phone: 800-432-3247 Fax: 202/737-8406
info@aspirin.org
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