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Enteric Aspirin for Arthritis

Arthritis is a disease that causes inflammation in the joints of the body. Causes include wear and tear from aging, trauma and autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis. Aspirin is one method to control the pain associated with arthritis. And enteric aspirin, a safety-coated variety, has been shown to have the least side effects of the aspirin varieties.

  1. Function

    • Aspirin is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that contains salicylic acid, which inhibits the process that causes the body to produce inflammation.

    Types

    • Aspirin comes in several varieties, including plain, chewable and enteric, or "safety-coated" aspirin. It is available in strengths from 75 mgs to 325 mgs per tablet.

    Effects

    • Enteric aspirin usually causes fewer side effects than non-coated aspirin, according to John Hopkins, but can still cause gastrointestinal upset.

    Expert Insight

    • The journal "Rheumatology" published a study in 1981 that followed 60 patients with rheumatoid arthritis who used enteric aspirin for 24 weeks. Most participants stopped the aspirin therapy around the 12th week, and none of the patients had an improvement in symptoms. The researchers concluded enteric aspirin is not an appropriate sole treatment for rheumatoid arthritis.

    Warning

    • Drugs.com advises against using other types of NSAIDs, like ibuprofen, along with avoiding alcohol during aspirin therapy. Both can interfere with the absorption and efficacy of aspirin.

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