Non-Aspirin Pain Relievers to Get Stronger Label Warnings for Heart Attack and Stroke Risk

Based on a review of newer safety data, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has ordered stronger label warnings for non-aspirin pain relievers like ibuprofen and naproxen about the increased risk of heart attack or stroke.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and naproxen have long carried a warning that, if taken over a long period of time, they can increase the risk of ulcers, heart attacks and strokes, FoxCT reports. The agency has now determined that shorter-term use increases risk as well.In a safety statement, the FDA said the risk of heart attack or stroke can occur as early as the first weeks of using an NSAID. The risk appears to be greater at higher doses. The risk may not be the same for all NSAIDs but at this time the FDA said it does not have enough information to determine whether the risk of a particular NSAID is higher or lower. The FDA is expanding label warnings to include risks of shorter term use and is asking health professionals to alert patients to heart attack symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath, and stroke symptoms like weakness on one side of the body, facial drooping, or slurred speech. Anyone who experiences such symptoms should seek immediate medical attention, according to FoxCT.

Michael White of the University of Connecticut School of Pharmacy explains that pain can make people less productive and erode the quality of life. Many minor injuries—twisted ankles, muscle strain, and bruises—can cause significant pain. Over the counter ibuprofen and naproxen are safer treatments than narcotics and are relatively safe when used at lower doses for a short period of time. But they can increase blood pressure and make the blood more likely to clot due to effects on platelets, White told FoxCT. Taking NSAIDs at higher doses for a longer period of time for chronic problems increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. In some instances, White says, treatments like physical therapy or joint injections would help with pain without exposing the individual to the NSAID risks. Because NSAIDs are ingredients in both prescription and OTC pain medicines, the FDA says consumers should be careful to avoid taking multiple medications with the same active ingredient, placing them at greater risk for side effects.

Acetaminophen, though it does not increase heart risks, does not work as well for some types of pain, like sore throat pain or osteoarthritis, and studies have shown that acetaminophen can cause liver damage. Daily aspirin at low doses can help reduce heart attack risk but it loses this benefit when the daily dose exceeds 650mg. The FoxCT report advises individuals to discuss the risks and benefits of different pain relievers with a doctor or pharmacist to help them make the best and safest choice of pain reliever.

 

 

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