Emerging evidence from this research has shown that SSRIs may be associated with bleeding of the lining of the digestive tract, including the esophagus, stomach and the upper part of the small intestine. This bleeding may be potentially serious. They also looked at the effects of taking SSRIs at the same time as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which are also associated with upper GI bleeding.
The research did not distinguish between specific drugs and whether one was associated with more bleeding than another. However, previous studies have shown that Paxil, Zoloft and Prozac are most often associated with abnormal bleeding. Singh said future research should address the question of which specific drugs and combinations of drugs are associated with the highest risk.
How does this affect you? You should be aware of the potential risk and may want to discuss these finding with your physician, discussing whether your gastrointestinal history and determining whether you are at a high or low risk for upper GI bleeding, and then find alternatives when and where appropriate.
Related Resources:
Bleeding in the Digestive Tract
