Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Magnesium salicylate is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that has been used for many years to alleviate mild to moderate pain, including backache. Its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties stem from its ability to inhibit cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, thereby reducing the production of prostaglandins involved in pain and inflammation. Several over-the-counter products for back pain, such as Doan’s Pills, contain magnesium salicylate as the main active ingredient.

The scientific evidence supporting its use for backache is moderate. While there are limited clinical trials specifically investigating magnesium salicylate for back pain, its effectiveness is inferred from the broader evidence base for NSAIDs in treating musculoskeletal pain, including backache. NSAIDs are generally accepted as first-line pharmacologic therapy for acute nonspecific low back pain according to guidelines from organizations such as the American College of Physicians. Magnesium salicylate offers an alternative for individuals who may not tolerate other NSAIDs, such as those sensitive to aspirin, though it is not considered superior.

Despite its long history of use and plausible mechanism of action, the lack of robust, condition-specific clinical trials limits the strength of evidence. Thus, the rating reflects moderate support (3/5), largely extrapolated from the overall efficacy of NSAIDs for back pain rather than direct high-quality studies with magnesium salicylate.

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