[Effects of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) on colorectal polyps in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis: a review of clinical studies].

Experimental animal studies have demonstrated a protective effect of NSAIDs against intestinal tumorigenesis due to chemical carcinogens. Many epidemiological studies have also shown that regular aspirin use is associated with reduction of the risk of colorectal cancer. In familial adenomatous polyposis, numerous clinical studies have reported that sulindac and indomethacin are effective in reducing colorectal polyps. However, their effects are incomplete and they may cause severe toxicity. Therefore, they are unlikely to replace colectomy as primary treatment. Nevertheless, their unique effects on colorectal tumorigenesis warrant further basic and clinical research on NSAIDs, including COX-2-selective inhibitors.