Painkillers are often used to help people manage pain, whether it’s from an injury, surgery, or long-term health condition. These medications can bring great relief, but recent studies show that some common painkillers may also carry hidden risks.
One group of painkillers, called NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), is often used to treat pain and reduce inflammation. These include drugs like ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac, and others.
However, researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham found that these drugs might harm the heart and kidneys. In a study using animals with heart problems, they found that an NSAID called carprofen caused inflammation in both the heart and kidneys.
If a heart attack occurred while on the drug, the damage was even worse. This suggests that NSAIDs may be risky for people with heart conditions.
Another large study in Denmark looked at the painkiller diclofenac. Researchers studied medical records from over 6.3 million adults and found that starting diclofenac was linked to a higher chance of having a heart attack or stroke within just 30 days.
The risks were higher compared to other NSAIDs like ibuprofen or even compared to paracetamol (acetaminophen). The study also found more cases of irregular heartbeat, stroke, heart failure, and heart attacks in those who used diclofenac. This shows that not all painkillers are equally safe, especially for the heart.
Besides risks to the heart and kidneys, some painkillers may also affect a person’s weight and sleep. A study from Newcastle University in the UK looked at data from over 133,000 people and found that drugs like gabapentin, pregabalin, and certain opiates were linked to weight gain and poor sleep.
These drugs are often given for long-term pain. They can make people feel sleepy, lower their physical activity, and even change their sense of taste. This can lead to cravings for sugary food and eventually to obesity. The study suggested that doctors should be cautious when prescribing these drugs and try to limit their use when possible.
Altogether, these studies show that while painkillers are helpful, they are not without risks. People with heart problems, kidney issues, or those struggling with sleep and weight should be especially careful. Doctors and patients need to weigh the benefits and the possible harms before deciding to use these medications.
In some cases, safer alternatives or lifestyle changes might help manage pain with fewer risks. When painkillers are needed, using them for the shortest time and at the lowest effective dose may help reduce the chance of serious health problems.
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