Problematic Painkillers

 

Have you ever taken ibuprofen (Motrin/Advil) or naproxen (Aleve/Naproxen) to alleviate pain? Well if so, you are like millions of others who often seek pain relief from these popular but problematic painkillers. These drugs as well as the Cox-2 inhibitors Vioxx, Bextra and Celebrex are known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Side Effects

Serious side effects of NSAIDs have been known for a while. A December 1, 1998, story in USA Today noted that 16,500 people died from bleeding stomach ulcers brought on by NSAID use. Eighty percent of those had no symptoms prior to death. A Danish study published in the British Medical Journal in January 2001, found a strong link between the use of prescription NSAIDs by pregnant women and miscarriage.

However, it has been discovered recently that NSAIDs cause another life-threatening side effect: cardiovascular disease. This risk is so substantial that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning on April 7, 2005. They urged the public to limit the use of NSAIDs and to strictly adhere to label directions. Furthermore, the FDA asked drug manufacturer Pfizer to voluntarily withdraw Bextra from the market.  It also urged manufacturers of all other NSAID products to strengthen warning labels.

High Risks

The National Institute on Aging sponsored a study to determine whether Celebrex or Naproxen could prevent Alzheimer’s disease. The study was halted when it became apparent that those taking Naproxen developed a 50% higher risk of heart attack and stroke than those taking a placebo. Clearly, Naproxen is detrimental to one’s health. Those who have been taking the over-the-counter version, Aleve, are advised to stop using it. Those who want to start taking it are advised to limit their use to no more than 400mg per day for no longer than ten days.

People who have been taking Naproxen should be particularly concerned since the previous recommended daily intake was 1500mg. If you are taking an NSAID for pain relief you will want to consider finding a healthier option, as the drug you are taking could actually take your life. For millions of Americans, even those suffering from chronic arthritic pain, wellness chiropractic care is that healthier option. The health choices you make today will affect your quality of life tomorrow. Find a 100 Year Lifestyle provider to help you along the path!