Doctor Warns of Dangers Associated with Common Painkiller Linked to Heart Attacks
A doctor has issued a warning about the potential risks of taking common painkillers for an extended period, highlighting their connection to various health issues ranging from heart attacks to liver failure. In the UK, 40 million painkillers were prescribed to patients during the 2022/2023 period, with over-the-counter pain relief sales reaching £750 million last year. While paracetamol and ibuprofen are among the most frequently used painkillers, each functions differently to alleviate pain. Paracetamol operates by blocking pain signals to the brain, whereas ibuprofen possesses anti-inflammatory properties that obstruct pain signals at the site of the pain. Despite approximately 8 million individuals in the UK enduring chronic pain, research indicates severe adverse effects of prolonged painkiller consumption.
Dr. Gerard Sinovich, a prominent pain specialist at the medical cannabis clinic, Alternaleaf, emphasised the importance of recognising the dangers associated with specific painkillers, such as ibuprofen. He cautioned, “Taking ibuprofen regularly for conditions like back pain and injury-related pain may seem harmless in the short term. However, extended usage can lead to severe health complications.” As the UK stands on the cusp of a pain epidemic, with an estimated 1.9 million more people anticipated to suffer from chronic pain by 20404, understanding the repercussions of continual painkiller use is crucial.
The potential risks of long-term ibuprofen intake highlighted by Dr. Sinovich include the elevated risk of heart failure due to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen reducing prostaglandin production in the body. This action inhibits the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX) in the kidneys, which can elevate blood pressure and fluid retention, leading to heart attacks, heart failure, strokes, and increased blood pressure. Furthermore, NSAID use has been linked to doubling the likelihood of hospital admissions due to heart failure and raising systolic blood pressure by an average of 2-3 mmHg.
Severe stomach inflammation is another potential side effect of ibuprofen usage, even at the recommended dosage, manifesting as indigestion or heartburn. However, excessive ibuprofen consumption can result in severe stomach issues such as ulcers, bleeding in the digestive tract, and diarrhoea. The risk of gastrointestinal complications like these escalates two to four times with NSAID use, and the increase is directly proportional to the dosage consumed. Individuals with a history of gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcers are advised to abstain from ibuprofen entirely to prevent further complications.
Kidney failure may ensue from ibuprofen overdose, although healthcare professionals can often reverse the condition resulting from excessive dosage. Symptoms of kidney failure include swelling in the extremities and abrupt changes in urine output, such as increased frequency or reduced volume. Additionally, research has indicated that even short-term use of anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen could heighten the likelihood of developing chronic pain. While ibuprofen curtails inflammation that accompanies injury recovery, protracted use may lead to the transformation of acute pain into a chronic condition.
Liver failure is another critical issue associated with ibuprofen, as it elevates levels of the aminotransferase enzyme (ALT) released when liver cells are damaged or perish. This escalation can culminate in liver damage or diseases. Hence, it is imperative to avoid combining ibuprofen with substances that could harm the liver, such as alcohol, to safeguard liver health. Dr. Sinovich underscores the necessity for individuals to be mindful of these potential risks and consider alternative pain management strategies rather than relying solely on painkillers.
The insights provided by Dr. Sinovich serve as a reminder of the intricate relationship between pain relief medications and various health complications. As more individuals contend with chronic pain, a comprehensive understanding of the long-term consequences of painkiller use becomes increasingly vital. By shedding light on the potential dangers associated with common painkillers like ibuprofen, healthcare professionals aim to empower individuals to make informed decisions about pain management strategies that prioritise overall well-being and health.