Dick Fields, Public Affairs Officer
Non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs(NSAIDs) The FDA is strengthening its warning about NSAIDs. They can increase the chance of a heart attack or stroke. These serious side effects can occur as early as the first few weeks of using an NSAID and the risk may rise with use. The warning doesn’t apply to aspirin. Prescription NSAIDs are an important treatment for the symptoms of many debilitating conditions, including osteoarthritis., rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and OTC NDAIDs are used to to temporarily reduce fever and to treat minor aches and pains such as headaches, toothaches, backaches, muscular aches, tendonitis, strains, Common OTC NSAIDs include Motrin and Advil, and Aleve. Be careful not to take more than one product at a time containing NSAIDs. If you have heart disease or high blood pressure consult your doctor before using NSAIDs. If you take low-dose aspirin for protection against heart attack and stroke, you should know that some NSAIDs, including Ibuprofen and Naproxen, can interfere with that protective effect. Stop taking NSAIDs and seek medical help if you experience symptoms that might signal heart problems or stroke, such as chest pain, trouble breathing, sudden weakness in one part or side of your body, or sudden slurred speech. Reduce your risk factors to heart disease and stroke. Smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes are significant risk factors for these conditions! Read the labels on your OTC and prescription medications. People who have cardiovascular disease, especially those who have already had a heart attack or cardiac bypass surgery are at the greatest risk. But the risk is also present in people without cardiovascular disease .Consumers can still take NSAIDs but be aware of the risk of heart attack or stroke, particularly at higher doses. Take the lowest effective dose for the shortest time possible. Read the label on your prescription.
