The IMA today issued guidelines on the safety and efficacy of non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or painkillers in an attempt to clear misconceptions.
It also opposed the Government's move to allow AYUSH doctors to prescribe over the counter (OTC) painkillers like aspirin and paracetamol.
NSAIDs suppress pain by inhibiting the enzyme cyclo -oxygenase and reducing synthesis of prostaglandins, which promote the inflammatory process.
Since a few years, NSAIDs have been under constant scrutiny and criticism due to their alleged negative effects on the liver, kidney and heart.
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"It is, however, important to raise awareness among the public that they must not self-medicate themselves for the underlying condition as it can cause more harm than good," said Dr A Marthanda Pillai, National President of IMA.
Pillai said it was a common perception that OTC drugs like paracetamol or aspirin can be taken for pain relief without consulting a doctor.
"Similarly aspirin, if self administered in children can precipitate liver failure, a condition called Reye's syndrome. IMA believes that both Paracetamol and Aspirin should be used under medical supervision," said Dr KK Aggarwal, Secretary General of IMA.
"The same may not be in the public interest as they have little knowledge about when not to use these drugs," said Aggarwal.