Aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), and naproxen (Aleve) as well as prescription Celebrex are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

If you are among the millions of people who take aspirin to protect against heart disease and stroke, or for arthritis pain, it's important to follow your doctor's instructions.

Take NSAIDs at the recommended dose and frequency. With aspirin, that's 75 to 100 mg/day. You can buy aspirin with this dosage, cut a regular tablet to the proper size, or take half of a regular aspirin every other day.

When muscle pain or arthritis are your problems, try acetaminophen (Tylenol) first. It won't work as a heart protector, but it's a good pain reliever that will not cause gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding. Take as recommended. Overuse can cause liver damage.

NSAIDs can damage the stomach lining, eventually leading to bleeding and ulcers. The American Journal of Gastroenterology found that one third of hospitalizations for GI bleeding were related to NSAID use.

Those taking proper dosages of NSAIDs can still suffer GI bleeding and ulcers, but there are ways to protect against ulcers or to heal them.

Antacids like Maalox or Mylanta neutralize stomach acid, and bismuths such as Pepto-Bismol add a layer of protection. H2 blockers such as Tagamet H-B, Pepcid AC, and Zantac 75, and proton pump inhibitors such as Nexium and Prilosec OTC can relieve symptoms and help heal ulcers while allowing you to continue NSAID use.

Work with your doctor to get an understanding of your personal risk factors for GI bleeding.

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