Mechanisms of NSAID-induced gastrointestinal mucosal injury: a basis for preventing ulceration and symptoms from these agents.

Concepts are reviewed of the effects of anti-ulcer agents in counteracting the biochemical and cellular pathology of gastrointestinal injury by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). While some measure of control of NSAID-induced mucosal damage is achieved in the upper gastrointestinal tract by the currently available anti-ulcer drugs, none can effectively counteract the major biochemical changes induced by NSAIDs. Some experimental approaches, which have been developed from recent studies in laboratory animals, are considered as a possible basis towards developing improvements in preventive procedures against NSAID-induced gastrointestinal injury in man.