NSAIDs May Potentially Heighten Risk of Heart Problems and Stroke

(Newswire.net — January 30, 2018) Orlando, FL — Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have long been thought to be quite helpful to individuals who suffer from pain and inflammation, especially among individuals with arthritis. However, it is also important to understand that these medications could potentially cause some side effects.

NSAIDs may potentially heighten the risk of heart problems and stroke. These medications are extremely popular among athletes and arthritis sufferers who are struggling to fight pain and inflammation. Unfortunately, their use may also be linked to the development of side effects.

There are certain types of NSAID medications that are used in the treatment of arthritis due to their ability to offer relief from pain and inflammation. They are thought to be useful in helping sufferers do their daily routines, work out and improve their mobility. While they may be popular, there have been quite a number of people who are considering the use of safer alternatives.

According to some experts, all NSAIDs block prostaglandins, which are described to be hormone-like substances. These substances are involved in the development of pain, inflammation and other bodily functions. This can include offering protection to the stomach lining from digestive fluids. 

Traditional NSAIDs are formulated to inhibit two enzymes for the purpose of blocking prostaglandins. These enzymes are the COX-1, which offers protection to the stomach, and COX-2, which causes pain and inflammation.

A newer NSAID medication is only able to block the CO-2 enzyme, and this means it is less likely to jeopardize stomach health.

Several studies have been conducted to determine the effects of long-term and high-dose use of NSAIDs. These medications have been linked with heart failure, stroke, heart attack and cardiovascular-related deaths.

Some of these studies are from the BMJ in 2011 and The Lancet in 2013. It is worth mentioning that a COX-2 selective inhibitor was withdrawn from the market in 2004 due to the concerns about its use, particularly the increased risks of stroke and heart attacks.

Arthritis sufferers may want to consider safer options in managing pain. This may help them find pain relief and not be susceptible to various health risks.

According to Steven B. Abramson, MD, Chair of the Department of Medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center, the side effects may depend on the frequency of use of the medications. Those who take these pharmaceutical drugs frequently or on a long-term basis may be more at risk of side effects.

One of the potentially safer alternatives to pain medications is glucosamine, which has long been thought to be an excellent joint health-enhancing supplement.

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