The Foundation today released a new resource designed to guide consumers through various symptoms and management of stomach aches. The aim is to reduce inappropriate self-medication that can lead to further medical complications.
According to the President of the Gut Foundation, gastroenterologist Professor Terry Bolin, research from various sources is starting to indicate wide spread use of anti-inflammatory medicines like ibuprofen for stomach aches. This is despite well established evidence linking ibuprofen with gastrointestinal side effects, the existence of alternatives like antispasmodics and clear warnings on ibuprofen packs that say “Do not take if you have a stomach ulcer or other stomach disorder...”
The Gut Foundation is urging people with stomach pain to consider antispasmodics rather than over the counter anti-inflammatory analgesics, because antispasmodics are not associated with gastrointestinal side effects.
“The evidence is clear about the need for this new resource1” said Professor Bolin.
“A recent Australian consumer survey2 shows that one in three people who have already suffered a gastric disorder or who are at risk of some kind of gastric disorder agree that anti-inflammatories are all you need to treat stomach aches and cramps. This really is an alarming consumer perception and could be contributing to what is already a high community toll of gastrointestinal side effects with anti-inflammatory medicines,” said Professor Bolin.
“I don’t think it helps that anti-inflammatory medicines like ibuprofen are also available in supermarkets and convenience stores. This availability gives the impression that the medicine is safe for all pain-related conditions, but a quick review of the label will confirm this is clearly not true. We urge people to discuss alternatives like antispasmodics with their pharmacist or GP”
According to Melbourne Gastroenterologist and Gut Foundation Councillor Professor Mel Korman, antispasmodics work by relaxing the cramped muscles of the digestive tract and relieve the spasms that cause abdominal pain.
“Over-the-counter antispasmodic treatments can be very important in helping to alleviate the symptoms and shorten the duration of the stomach pain and cramping,” said Professor Korman.
The Gut Foundation has emphasised that people who have continuing stomach pain should consult their GP or community pharmacist for advice.
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For more information contact Gareth Finch at Palin Communications on 0409 747 157
Issued on behalf of the Gut Foundation.
References
1.“How do I treat my stomach aches and cramps?” Gut Foundation. July 2007
2.Robinson and James Research. Consumer Omnibus Results. February 2007
