Company Statements on Over the Counter Painkillers

March 9, 2010— -- Statement from Bayer, the maker of Aspirin and Aleve

Any definitive conclusions regarding the use of analgesics and potential effects on hearing can only be determined through well-designed, prospective clinical trials of adequate size. Unfortunately, the limitations of this study decrease our ability to draw any conclusions:

We advise consumers to carefully follow the label instructions when using all medicines.

With regard to aspirin, it is well known that some people can experience ringing in the ears or tinnitus, usually with higher doses. These side effects are usually reversible when the aspirin is stopped. Any consumer experiencing ringing in the ears should check with a physician as soon as possible for an evaluation.

It is important that those currently on a doctor-recommended low-dose aspirin treatment regimen for the prevention of cardiovascular events do not stop or modify their aspirin regimen without consulting with their doctor. Research shows that aspirin withdrawal actually can put patients at higher risk for a cardiovascular event. (Ferrari e, et al. Coronary syndromes following aspirin withdrawal: a special risk for late stent thrombosis. J Am Coll Cardiol 2005; 45:456-459)