ANTI-INFLAMMATORIES HURT MY HEART?

June 29, 2011 in Arthritis, Medications
Tags: Advil, Aleve, anti-inflammatory, Arthrotec, cardiovascular, Celebrex, celecoxib, Diclofenac, heart attack, ibuprofen, Motrin, naproxen, NSAID, pain relievers, Rofecoxib, safest for your heart, Vioxx

No one really thinks much about popping a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), or Celebrex, for minor complaints, but we should give it more thought. A 9-year study, based on detailed registry data of more than 1 million NSAID users, that was completed last year found that certain pain relievers can increase cardiovascular risk, even in healthy people. The researchers looked at several different types of NSAIDs and this is what they found:

• Ibuprofen — 29% greater risk for fatal or nonfatal stroke;
• Rofecoxib (Vioxx) — 66% increased risk for cardiovascular death. (Remember the high rate of heart attack and stoke is why it was taken off the US market back in 2004.);
• Diclofenac (Arthrotec) — 91% increased risk for cardiovascular death. (Diclofenac has high COX-2 inhibition selectivity.)
• Celecoxib — findings inconclusive. The number of events was too small but available data did seem to show a trend for increased cardiovascular risk;
• Naproxen (Aleve) — NOT associated with any increased cardiac risk.

That why these researchers say naproxen is the safest choice for your heart.  As with any new medical regimen, always consult your physician first.

Rodney Bluestone Medical doctors are rheumatology specialists located in Los Angeles, California. We provide treatment for all types of arthritis including osteoarthritis, gout, rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. For more information, including treatment and symptoms of arthritis, please visit www.rodneybluestonemedical.com.