Diclofenac is the third most popular type of painkiller, with paracetamol and ibuprofen taking the top two spots. New research on diclofenac has uncovered that it may potentially raise the risk of heart attack. The study found that the use of diclofenac may raise the risk of heart attack and stroke more so than using other types of painkillers.
The researchers looked at patients who were prescribed diclofenac for at least a year and compared data to individuals taking other painkillers and those who did not take painkillers. The findings uncovered that diclofenac patients continuously had a higher risk of heart-related problems compared to those on other painkillers or none at all.
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Dr. Tarun K explained, “Diclofenac is mainly broken down in the liver, we’ve always known that there has been a link between excess use of paracetamol, acetaminophen and other such medications which are metabolized in the liver, and the effects those have on the liver, but this is the first time a report has come out and shown that there is a direct link between using diclofenac and heart health. The fact that it is so easily available without a prescription is also something we have to consider. So many people take these painkillers for every little thing. We need to make them understand and aware of what exactly these medications do.”
Although there was an overall increased risk of heart attack while using diclofenac, the individual risk was still relatively low.
To reduce your risk of heart attack, ensure you’re practicing heart-healthy habits such as not smoking, eating well, exercising, reducing stress, managing other health conditions, and maintaining a healthy weight. Always speak to your doctor about over-the-counter drugs you’re taking for a prolonged period of time and always take medications as instructed on the label or by your doctor.
Also read:
- Natural ways to improve heart rate and get your heart pumping
- Why your heart skips a beat
- Yoga for heart health: Yoga poses to reduce the risk of heart disease
Emily Lunardo studied medical sociology at York University with a strong focus on the social determinants of health and mental illness. She is a registered Zumba instructor, as well as a Canfit Pro trainer, who teaches fitness classes on a weekly basis. Emily practices healthy habits in her own life as well as helps others with their own personal health goals. Emily joined Bel Marra Health as a health writer in 2013.
