A large study published in the British Medical Journal has found that taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and naproxen, is associated with a 19% increased risk of hospitalisation for heart failure. The research analysed data from 10 million users in the UK, the Netherlands, Italy, and Germany, with an average age of 77.
UK experts caution that the findings are of little relevance to most people under 65, but may be a concern for elderly patients, particularly those with existing conditions like hypertension, diabetes, or kidney problems. The British Heart Foundation advises that patients should use the lowest effective dose of NSAIDs for the shortest possible time.
Professor Peter Weissberg, medical director at the BHF, stated: “This large observational study reinforces previous research showing that some NSAIDs increase the risk of developing heart failure. It has been known for some years that such drugs need to be used with caution in patients with, or at high risk of, heart disease.” He added that the study serves as a reminder to doctors to prescribe NSAIDs carefully.
Helen Williams, consultant pharmacist for cardiovascular disease at the Royal Pharmaceutical Society, emphasised that younger patients taking short courses of ibuprofen for occasional aches and pains should not be worried. However, she warned against regular use without clinical supervision, as there may be other issues such as kidney damage.
Williams also advised using over-the-counter painkillers appropriately: “Ibuprofen are anti-inflammatory drugs so if you’ve damaged your muscles where there’s likely to be inflammation, then ibuprofen might be appropriate. If you’ve got a headache, paracetamol is fine.”
