The effects of acetylsalicylic acid on the human gastric mucosa as revealed by gastrocamera

Abstract

The influence on the gastric mucosa of acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) given as a buffered solution (Bamyl-SR, AB Hässle, Sweden) and as a conventional disintegrating tablet (MagnecylR, ACO, Sweden) has been compared in 7 healthy volunteers, using the gastrocamera technique. The study was performed crossover with randomized treatment periods. The dosage of ASA was 1 g 3 times daily for 3 days. Before and after each treatment period gastrocamera examinations were performed. The evaluation of the gastro-camera films was made blindly. It was found that after the ASA-tablets all subjects had multiple and prominent erosions. However, in all subjects the erosive effects on the gastric mucosa were less pronounced with the buffered solution. It was concluded that any person taking conventional ASA-tablets in a dose of 1 g 3 times daily for 3 days runs the risk of developing lesions of the gastric mucosa. This risk is less when ASA is taken in the form of a buffered solution.