Question

Which OTC medication is most likely to increase a patient's risk for GI bleeding?

a) Acetaminophen
b) Ibuprofen
c) Loratadine
d) Diphenhydramine

Answer 1

Ibuprofen, an NSAID, is the OTC medication most likely to increase a patient's risk for GI bleeding. Acetaminophen, Loratadine, and Diphenhydramine have less impact on GI bleeding risk.

Step-by-step explanation:

The over-the-counter (OTC) medication most likely to increase a patient's risk for gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding is b) Ibuprofen. Ibuprofen belongs to a class of drugs known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). NSAIDs, including ibuprofen, can cause stomach bleeding, particularly in individuals who are over 60, have a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding disorders, take prescription blood thinners or steroids, or have certain cardiovascular conditions.

In contrast, Acetaminophen does not significantly affect the GI tract or increase the risk of GI bleeding as it does not inhibit platelet aggregation or cause gastric distress like NSAIDs do. Loratadine and Diphenhydramine, both antihistamines, are also less likely to cause GI bleeding compared to NSAIDs.