Study author Andrea Arfe said, “Our findings — which focused only on prescription NSAIDs — might apply to over-the-counter NSAIDs as well. Although over-the-counter NSAIDs are typically used at lower doses and for shorter durations, they are sometimes available at the same doses as prescription NSAIDs and they may be inappropriately overused.”
The study only highlights an association between the use of NSAIDs and heart failure risk, but doesn’t imply causality.
NSAIDs work to decrease inflammation by blocking cyclooxygenase, an enzyme which comes in two forms. One form, COX-1, protects the stomach lining, while the other form, COX-2, is a result of injury or inflammation.
Traditional NSAIDs like Tylenol block both types of the enzyme, and that is why some people experience an upset stomach when taking these meds.
NSAIDs also cause sodium retention, and this is what concerned the doctors with regards to these medications contributing to heart failure.
Although NSAIDs are effective at reducing pain, patients should be made aware of the risk they pose on the heart. For that reason, it’s important that you speak to your doctor if you do take NSAIDs regularly and monitor your heart health to ensure it is healthy or spot any changes early on.