AppId is over the quota
The study suggests that the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) – and in particular a type of NSAID called Cox-2 inhibitors – could be linked to an increased risk of irregular heart rhythm (atrial fibrillation).
It has been known for some time that NSAIDs – which include drugs such as ibuprofen and celecoxib – are associated with an increased risk of heart attack and stroke in people with a history of heart problems, but the effect on heart rhythm has not been looked at. Atrial fibrillation is associated with an increased long-term risk of stroke, heart failure and death.
Researchers in Denmark studied over 32,000 people with atrial fibrillation compared with those who did not have it, and found that use of NSAIDs was linked with an increased risk of atrial fibrillation.
In those who had recently started taking NSAIDs, there was a 40 per cent increased risk of atrial fibrillation, whilst those taking Cox-2 inhibitors had a 70 per cent increased risk, compared with people not taking the drugs.
The researchers estimated that there would be approximately four extra cases per year of atrial fibrillation per 1,000 new users of NSAIDs and seven extra cases per year of atrial fibrillation per 1,000 new users of Cox-2 inhibitors.
The study also found that the risk of atrial fibrillation was highest in older people and in those with chronic kidney disease or rheumatoid arthritis. The research was published online in the British Medical Journal.
Dr Chris Deighton, rheumatologist in Derby and member of Arthritis Care’s medical advisory board said that people with arthritis needed to carefully weigh up the risks and benefits of taking NSAIDs. ‘These drugs should be taken in the lowest dose for the shortest period of time, and only then of course if the person feels they are definitely helping the symptoms of their arthritis.’
Anyone with questions about arthritis or treatments can call Arthritis Care’s helplines free on 0808 800 4050 or email Helplines@arthritiscare.org.uk
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