A new study reveals that the widely used painkiller Ibuprofen (NSAID) probably causes thousands of deaths each year from cardiac arrest. In this article, you’ll read all about this dangerous drug.

According to the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Foundation, sudden cardiac arrest is one of the leading causes of death in adults over the age of 40, and nine out of ten victims die as a result.

Surprisingly, its causes are still considered unknown. Instead, the medical profession chooses to point the finger at vague risk factors, such as family history, previous heart problems or elevated LDL cholesterol.

 

Study reveals heart-stopping side effects of anti-inflammatory drugs

In a shocking press release from the European Society of Cardiology titled “‘Harmless’ painkillers associated with increased risk of cardiac arrest“, two researchers warn that painkillers considered harmless by the general public are associated with a significantly increased risk of cardiac arrest.

Professor Gunnar H. Gisalson (University of Copenhagen), one of the lead researchers, stated in the press release:

“By allowing these drugs to be purchased without a prescription without advice or restrictions, a message is sent to the public as if they are completely safe.”

 

The study examined a total of 28,947 patients who had suffered an out-of-hospital heart attack in Denmark over the course of 10 years.

3,376 of these were treated with an anti-inflammatory drug up to 30 days before the event. The most commonly used drug was ibuprofen (51%) followed by diclofenac (22%).

The study results show that these drugs are associated with a 31% increased risk of cardiac arrest. Ibuprofen and diclofenac increased the risk by 31% and 50%, respectively. Naproxen, celecoxib, and rofecoxib were not associated with increased cardiac arrest.

Professor Gisalson in response to these findings

“The findings clearly show us that these drugs are not harmless. Diclofenac and ibuprofen, both commonly used drugs, were associated with a significantly increased risk of cardiac arrest. These drugs are therefore best avoided by patients with cardiovascular disease or other cardiovascular risk factors.” she stated.

So what’s best to take instead of Ibuprofen?

Ibuprofen is something you can buy at the supermarket or drugstore, which is why many people are still convinced that they are completely safe.

Thus, the above research confirms that we should be very serious about using this drug and not just take it as a painkiller for a long time.

People suffering from chronic pain such as arthritis patients, if the pain is too severe to bear, can reduce the risks of Ibuprofen by using an alternative such as paracetamol. However, they will still need to change their lifestyle and fight the cause of the pain with other painkillers and/or natural remedies.

 

More information or, an appointment?

Would you like to discuss your pain problems with a doctor or pharmacist? Then please book telehealth consult with one of our doctors at HelloDoc Health. Please contact us directly by calling +31 85 201 30 73 or using our contact form. We are here to help you!

 

Sources: European Heart Journal – Cardiovascular Pharmacotherapy, PubMed, SHE. Health Clinics, Leefbewust, European Society of Cardiology