What is one mechanism behind NSAID-induced gastritis?

One key mechanism behind NSAID-induced gastritis is the inhibition of gastroprotective prostaglandins. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) work by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, which are essential for the production of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins play a crucial role in maintaining the gastric mucosal barrier by promoting mucus and bicarbonate secretion, maintaining adequate blood flow to the gastric mucosa, and stimulating epithelial cell regeneration. When NSAIDs inhibit these protective prostaglandins, it leads to a compromised gastric lining, making it more susceptible to damage from gastric acid, which can result in gastritis.

This mechanism emphasizes the importance of these prostaglandins in protecting the gastrointestinal tract, highlighting how NSAIDs can unintentionally lead to conditions such as gastritis by disrupting this protective effect.