NAPLEX Practice Question # 106

NAPLEX Examination.

Practice Question # 106.

NSAIDs are associated to varying degrees, depending on the agent, with the following adverse effects.

1. GI effects, such as GI distress, irritation, erosion of the gastric mucosa, nausea, vomiting, and dyspepsia are the most commonly observed effects and are attributed to the acidic nature of the molecules and the decreased synthesis of gastric mucosa secondary to inhibition of COX-1. Serious GI toxicity including bleeding and gut perforation is also possible.
2. CNS (central nervous system) effects, such as CNS depression, drowsiness, headache, dizziness, visual disturbances, ototoxicity, and confusion are observed.
3. Cardiovascular events associated with NSAIDs include an increased risk of myocardial infarction and stroke that increases with longer duration of therapy. These risks are addressed in a black box warning on all NSAIDs.
4. Hematologic effects observed include thrombocytopenia, altered platelet function, and prolonged bleeding time, which are commonly called antiplatelet effects.
5. Nephrotoxicity in the form of renal failure, hyperkalemia, and proteinuria are also possible adverse effects.
6. Other adverse effects include skin rashes, rare liver failure, asthma, and fluid retention.