By Michael Dorausch, D.C.
Two interesting articles appeared in yesterday’s news regarding the use of aspirin, acetaminophen and ibuprofen, painkillers that are used by millions.
One article appeared on MSNBC and the headlines read, “don’t chase aspirin with ibuprofen” as a new study has found that the popular painkiller blocks the heart protecting effects of aspirin. The other article appeared on ABCNews.com and was titled, “painkillers linked to kidney failure” as researchers have found that individuals with kidney disease or other ailments who regularly take aspirin or acetaminophen may be increasing their risk of developing kidney failure.
According to a new study, the pain reliever ibuprofen apparently blocks the heart protecting effects of aspirin. This may have major implications for millions of people who take daily doses of aspirin in hopes of having healthier hearts but also who take (often in daily doses) ibuprofen, commonly known in North America under the brand names of Advil and Motrin, to cope with conditions such as arthritis.
The MSNBC article features a quote from a cardiologist at the University of Pennsylvania who states, “it would not do you a lot of good to take one medication only to have another wipe out its effects.”
Representatives for drug companies suggested that both drugs could still be taken as long as they were taken at different times during the day.
The article which was featured on ABCNews.com involved a study which showed a greater risk of chronic kidney failure in patients who regularly take either aspirin or acetaminophen. Earlier research has suggested similar side effects.
According to a New England Journal of Medicine study, people with kidney failure were 2.5 times more likely to have been regular users of aspirin and/or acetaminophen than those without kidney problems.
According to the article, more research is needed into whether the use of aspirin or acetaminophen can contribute to kidney failure. I see that often, “more research is needed.” Do you want to continue taking aspirin and/or acetaminophen or even ibuprofen daily until that data becomes available?
If you’re going to become a statistic, why not be one of those in the healthy group.
MSNBC: Don’t chase aspirin with ibuprofen – Painkiller blocks the heart-protecting effects of aspirin
ABCNews: Painkillers Linked to Kidney Failure
planetc1.com-news @ 11:32 am | Article ID: 1008876739
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