Nsaids and prednisone

[christi48]

Why is it a no-no to take these medications together? I don't mean at the same time of day, but in general. I've had several surgeries in the past few months and both ibuprofen and acetaminophen were recommended for pain relief... Physicians know I am taking Pred for PMR albeit a low dose (2.5mg daily).

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

It’s because they are both hard on the stomach…see link. At lower doses of Pred and only short term use like following an operation they may be okay especially if you are taking a PPI [Omeprazole or ending ending in ..prazole… in UK, maybe called something difference in US] - but it is something that you should discuss with your medical staff.

verywellhealth.com/can-you-....

[christi48 in reply to DorsetLady]

Thank you so much for your reply. This forum is my go-to place for all questions. I learn so much from questions and answers and it has made my PMR journey so much more manageable.

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer in reply to christi48]

Good-why we are here..

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to christi48]

We're getting something right then - it is our aim!!!

[Hidden]

As above,both Pred and NSAIDS can cause irritation of the lining of the stomach which can go on to be severe enough to cause erosions and bleeding of a serious nature, and some folks are more prone to this than others, hence the widespread use of stomach protection with omeprazole etc. The risk is greater in older people. Higher doses and longer duration of treatment increases the risk further. So taking them both together is not reccomended.

[christi48 in reply to Hidden]

Thank you so much for taking the time to reply to my question sondya.

[christi48 in reply to Hidden]

Thank you for sharing your knowledge, Sillydogsmum...

[sondya]

I was prescribed NSAID for frozen shoulder. Given my chronic PMR history, diagnosis was wrong. But it was the chemist who saw my prescription for a NSAID and historical prescriptions for blood pressure pills, told me to stop taking the former as it could lead to kidney damage.

[Gimme]

As above, it is usually because the effect on stomach acid is considered to be additive if you take both and that can damage the stomach lining. However, for myself, I would have no anxieties about very occasional use of ibuprofen or just short term. Though none of the NSAIDs are particularly good for us older folks, especially if kidney function is already impaired and kidney function does usually decline with age. I'm always surprised about the popularity of naproxen with doctors tbh, when it's one of the worst for causing gastro intestinal issues. I can't use it, at all. I don't think it hurts to challenge them if you are prescribed an NSAID when your are on pred, just to make sure that it has been taken into consideration. Like all medicines, you have to balance out the risk versus benefit.

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Gimme]

I think it is favoured because it is pushed as being better for your heart than ibuprofen. Just goes to show they only have one-track minds!!! Here they are practically banned!!!!! Never even heard naproxen being mentioned.

[christi48 in reply to PMRpro]

Thank you PMR Pro. I learn something from every one of your replies.

[christi48 in reply to Gimme]

Thank you for the information Gimme. I appreciate you taking the time to reply.