Hazards of Taking NSAIDs

Many of us know that taking too many milligrams of NSAIDS can have a detrimental effect on your liver, causing possible liver failure. But did you know that taking NSAIDs like ibuprofen and Celebrex may increase your chance of a fatal heart attack or a debilitating stroke? Experts have been taking a closer look at NSAIDs to see if there are any side effects that could increase the potential of a stroke or cardiovascular death.

In one recent study the potential risk of a myocardial infarction (heart attack) or stroke was increase by fourfold. In fact, ibuprofen was revealed to have a three times increase of a stroke for a patient compared to when given a placebo. Though it is also important to note that many patients in this study had osteoarthritis and would be on some type of long term NSAID treatment, were older and could have other associated diseases, such as high blood pressure or elevated cholesterol levels, that may have more of an impact on the higher incidents of heart attacks or strokes.

In any event, you should discuss with your doctor all the variables before beginning a long term NSAID therapy. NSAIDs can also cause gastrointestinal problems such as ulcers and bleeding, but they are the most effective treatment for the relief of chronic pain. Also inquire with your physician about prescribing the lowest possible dosage.