New Delhi: Painkillers are those drugs that work wonders at times of extreme pain, they tend to target the levels of pain an individual is feeling by interrupting pain signals before they get to the brain. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), help in managing pain and fever, mostly by reducing inflammation. But continuous use of such drugs can be life-threatening too. As per reports, taking over-the-counter drugs for a long time without a prescription could increase the risk of side effects of issues like stomach, heart and kidney diseases. On World Drug Day of painkiller drugs on the body, let’s understand the impact of painkiller drugs on the body.
In conversation with News9, Dr Manish Itolikar, Consultant Physician, Fortis Hospital Mulund said, “Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are used to reduce pain and inflammation in the body. Commonly used molecules are Ibuprofen, Diclofenac, Aceclofenac and Naprosyn, but these drugs also cause adverse events. NSAIDs can cause stomach ulcers and sometimes it can lead to bleeding. These drugs may cause salt retention in the body and increase blood pressure.”
Risk factors of painkiller drugs on the body
According to Dr Itolikar, “When taken in large dosages over a long period, they can cause kidney failure or sometimes liver failure. Hence these drugs must be used with caution and under doctor’s supervision. Women who are trying to get pregnant, or pregnant and breastfeeding should never take painkillers without consulting a doctor first. Regular usage can also increase a person’s tolerance to the drug thus their dosage will have to be increased for the pills to work and it can also cause dependence, thus managing pain without it will become increasingly difficult.”
Can painkillers cause inflammation in the body
Painkillers, particularly NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and aspirin, are often used to reduce the inflammation in the body and relieve pain, but there are also serious concerns linked to it. As per some studies, prolonged or excessive use of certain painkillers can potentially contribute to inflammation or have other serious effects on the body. Some of them may include:
Gut Health: Long-term usage of these drugs can lead to gastrointestinal issues such as ulcers and bleeding that can contribute to inflammation in the gut.
Liver and Kidney Damage: Excessive use of acetaminophen (Tylenol) can cause serious damage to the liver, while prolonged use of NSAIDs can also cause kidney issues and both conditions can result in systemic inflammation.
Cardiovascular risks: Some NSAIDs, especially those with high dosages, have been associated with a higher risk of heart attack and stroke, which are conditions caused due to inflammation in the body.
Opioid-Induced Hyperalgesia: Long-term use of opioid painkillers can lead to a condition where the body becomes more sensitive to pain, potentially increasing inflammatory responses.
As per reports, taking over-the-counter drugs for a long time without a prescription could increase the risk of side effects of issues like stomach, heart and kidney diseases. On World Drug Day of painkiller drugs on the body, let’s understand the impact of painkiller drugs on the body. Health Conditions Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
