Painkiller risks
It's not hard to figure out that some drugs-especially painkillers-are riskier than others. But these days, we're actually getting more and more proof.
For instance, look at two recent studies on NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), particularly NSAIDs known as Cox-2 inhibitors-the same class Vioxx was in before it was taken off the market.
These studies only prove the wisdom of the 2004 ban on Vioxx-which we now know for sure puts users at risk of not just potentially fatal heart problems, but also kidney troubles.
In my last House Call, I told you about new concerns about the 30-year-old drug diflonac. In fact, I've told you about the dangers behind painkillers many, many times.
But the fact is, I do understand that sometimes you just can't get out of taking one.
If you're going to take one, though, I'd rather you take the safest ones possible-that is, as safe as a painkiller can be.
As far as we in the medical community know, the safest painkiller out there (at least when it comes to heart risks) is naproxen, sold most widely as over-the-counter Aleve.
Ibuprofen is also considered relatively safe-you know it mostly as Advil, Motrin, or Nupren.
Like always, the trick is moderation. Don't take these drugs every day, even if they are over-the-counter. To be honest, I recommend avoiding painkillers entirely. In my experiece, a healthy diet and regular exercise can truly make drugs needless, especially when it comes to arthritis.
One final word on painkillers: If your doctor recommends a Cox-2 inhibitor, immediately ask him about your other options, preferably natural ones, like lifestyle and diet chances. And if he says there are no other options, start running for the door-no matter how badly your arthritis is acting up.
