Non-aspirin non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in colorectal cancer: a review of clinical studies

Br J Cancer. 2022 Nov;127(10):1735-1743. doi: 10.1038/s41416-022-01882-8. Epub 2022 Jun 28.

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) chemoprevention is an area of interest. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are anti-inflammatory agents which have been identified as cancer chemoprevention agents given that inflammation is thought to contribute to tumorigenesis. Most studies have demonstrated that the NSAID, aspirin, plays a beneficial role in the prevention of CRC and colonic adenomas. Non-aspirin NSAIDs (NA-NSAIDs) have also been studied in CRC chemoprevention. There is increasing literature around their role in pre-cancerous polyp prevention and in decreasing CRC incidence and CRC-related outcomes in certain high-risk subgroups. However, the use of NA-NSAIDs may be accompanied by increased risks of toxicity. Further studies are required to establish the associations between concurrent aspirin and NA-NSAID use, and CRC-related outcomes.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adenoma* / drug therapy
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal / adverse effects
  • Aspirin / therapeutic use
  • Colorectal Neoplasms* / drug therapy
  • Colorectal Neoplasms* / epidemiology
  • Colorectal Neoplasms* / etiology
  • Humans

Substances

  • Aspirin
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents