Some pain relievers increase the risk of heart attack

According to a study, published in the British Medical Journal, scientists have discovered that some painkillers used to treat swelling such as Celebrex and Advil can increase the risk. heart attack, stroke or even death.

Swiss scientists analyzed the results of 31 experiments on the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and concluded that the risks of cardiovascular disease must be considered first. when prescribing any of these drugs.

Dr. Peter Juni and colleagues at the University of Bern conducted a study, analyzing the link between the use of NSAIDs and cardiovascular disease in 116,429 patients.

The painkillers commonly used by patients are naproxen (Aleve), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), diclofenac (Voltaren, Cataflam), celecoxib (Celebrex), etoricoxib (Arcoxia), rofecoxib (Vioxx), lumiracoxib (Prexige) or placebo.

The results showed that the number of heart problems in patients taking NSAIDs was low. In 29 experiments, 554 cases of heart attack occurred. Meanwhile, 377 strokes were detected in 26 experiments and 676 deaths in 28 experiments.

Compared to people taking placebo drugs, patients who took rofecoxib and lumiracoxib were twice as likely to have a heart attack, and patients who took ibuprofen were three times more likely to have a heart attack.

Scientists also found that the highest risk of deaths is related to the use of ethoroxoxib and diclofenac drugs. Naproxen seems to be the least harmful.

Scientists say: " Our research provides evidence of the safety of these drugs. Although there are still some uncertainties, only a small amount of evidence is collected. It was also shown to consider cardiovascular risks when prescribing any NSAIDs ".