
Dr Alex Lyon has commented on the following article:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-37496348
A recent study analysing the health records of 10 million people has highlighted a growing concern that painkillers known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) such as ibuprofen and diclofenac can increase the risk of heart failure. These drugs are effective painkillers, particularly for people with pain from their joints or back, but cause salt and fluid retention. People with heart and circulatory diseases, including heart attack survivors and people with high blood pressure, are at higher risk of developing more serious heart failure when they take NSAID painkillers such as ibuprofen and diclofenac. A number of risk factors including older age were identified by this study.
We are happy to help review people taking these painkillers who have heart conditions or who are concerned about these risks and provide a personalised approach to guiding the safest treatments, and alternative pain control.