Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may also cause many non-ulcer side effects. Other gastrointestinal side effects - usually gastrointestinal bleeding - are among the most common of these. NSAIDs are a leading cause of hospitalizations related to adverse drug reactions.

Most NSAIDs have the potential to cause increased risks of cardiovascular problems (e.g., heart attack, stroke) and rare, but serious, skin reactions. However, aspirin has been shown to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke in some patients. The degree of these risks may vary among individuals, but generally increases with the dosage and frequency of NSAID usage. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has called for label changes on many NSAIDs to include information about these potential risks. However, when used properly over brief periods of time, NSAIDs rarely produce serious side effects.

Common side effects of NSAIDs include:

• Indigestion or nausea
  
• Abdominal pain
  
• Diarrhea and bloating
  
• Heartburn
  
• Unusual bleeding (e.g., nosebleeds, irregular/heavy menstruation)
  
• Drowsiness or dizziness
  
• Headache or back pain
  
• Ringing in the ears or reduced hearing
  
• Stuffy or runny nose
  
• Sleeplessness
  
• Skin rashes or mouth sores
  
• Sensitivity to sunlight
  
• Fluid retention, leading to swollen feet, ankles, legs or hands
  
• Painful urination
  
• Unexplained weight gain

Other more severe side effects of NSAIDs include:

• Allergic reaction (sneezing, respiratory congestion, itching or skin rashes)
  
• High blood pressure
  
• Migraines
  
• Kidney or liver problems
  
• Chest tightness

Some side effects occur when patients first begin taking NSAIDs and then diminish after patients have been taking the medication for several days. In addition, the severity of some side effects can be reduced by taking the medication with food or by choosing enteric-coated medications that do not release the NSAID into the bloodstream until it has safely passed through the stomach. Lowering the dosage can also be effective.