Heart Attack Risk from Use of Over-the-counter Painkiller

A recent research has advised caution with the use of an over-the-counter painkiller which is currently quite popular, and is associated with an elevated risk of heart attack and stroke. The pain killer, diclofenac , is said to elevate the risk of heart attack or stroke by 40% in those using the medicine.

Diclofenac also happens to be the most commonly prescribed non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)in Britain which is available over-the-counter and mostly used to relieve pain and chronic inflammatory disorders.

Nearly six million prescriptions were written for the use of this painkiller last year.

According to researchers, this drug which provided pain relief for millions with chronic inflammatory disorders comes with a clearly worded caution about potential cardiovascular risk, which is apparently overlooked. The risk of a heart attack or stroke doubles with a higher dose.

Patients have been advised to check with their specialists before continuing or discontinuing its use.

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Source-Medindia