Are NSAID combinations more effective?
In India, a variety of NSAID combinations are available, often as Over-The-Counter products. These combinations are the easiest way of selling two drugs when one (or even none) may be needed for the patient. These ‘combined’ pills are marketed with slogans like “Ibuprofen for pain and Paracetamol for fever” and “Ibuprofen for peripheral action and paracetamol for central action”! Recently, combinations of NSAIDs with rantidine, omeprazole and other proton pump inhibitors are also being marketed with the ostensible reason that the gastric adverse effects of NSAIDs can be prevented by using these combinations. It is indeed very unfortunate that the medical fraternity in India have fallen prey to such gimmicks. The gullible patient then has to pay for the doctors’ complacence in terms of extra cost and extra adverse effects.
