The use of over-the-counter (OTC) nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is ubiquitous in the US. More than 20 million Americans take NSAIDs daily and upward of 100 million NSAID prescriptions are filled each year.

NSAIDs can help reduce pain and inflammation, but like any medication, they may cause serious side effects, and awareness of the risks, particularly with inappropriate use, is low. In addition, many healthcare providers (HCPs) are not fully aware of FDA guidance on pain management with NSAIDs.

Ardelis Health founded the Alliance for Rational Use of NSAIDs, a public health coalition dedicated to promoting the safe and appropriate use of NSAIDs to HCPs and the public. Members included:

• Identification of knowledge gaps: Through research with Alliance partners, including consumer surveys, HCP interviews, and scientific advisory boards, Ardelis Health helped the Alliance discover knowledge gaps among consumers and unmet educational needs among HCPs
• Professional education programs: By honing the Alliance goals and executing against strategy, Ardelis Health assisted the Alliance in creating valued resources and implementing educational programs targeted across the spectrum of HCPs involved in pain management and NSAID delivery
• Public awareness campaign: To educate consumers, Ardelis Health helped the Alliance create a repository of effective resources and drive NSAID awareness from Alliance partner-delivered programs to the launch of NSAID Awareness Week