Call for tighter restriction on sale of ibuprofen, following link to heart attack risk

Research published in the European Heart Journal has found that ibuprofen increases the risk of cardiac arrest, prompting fresh calls for restrictions on the sale of the drug.

The study, conducted by the University of Copenhagen examined data on almost 29,000 patients who suffered an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest recorded in Denmark between 2001 and 2010 and found that use of any NSAID raised the likelihood of cardiac arrest by 31 per cent.

Postulating on why the drug increased the risk, the researchers speculated that the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) drug influenced platelet aggregation and the formation of blood clots. The drug may also cause arteries to constrict, increase fluid retention and raise blood pressure.

Prof Gunnar Gislason of the University of Copenhagen, who led the study, called for tighter controls on the sale of ibuprofen and other NSAIDs. He said: “Allowing these drugs to be purchased without a prescription, and without any advice or restrictions, sends a message to the public that they must be safe.

“The findings are a stark reminder that NSAIDs are not harmless. Diclofenac and ibuprofen, both commonly used drugs, were associated with significantly increased risk of cardiac arrest.”

Gislason commented: “NSAIDs should be used with caution and for a valid indication. They should probably be avoided in patients with cardiovascular disease or many cardiovascular risk factors.

“I don’t think these drugs should be sold in supermarkets or petrol stations where there is no professional advice on how to use them.”

He added: “Over-the-counter NSAIDs should only be available at pharmacies, in limited quantities and in low doses. The current message being sent to the public about NSAIDs is wrong. If you can buy these drugs in a convenience store then you probably think: ‘They must be safe for me.’

“Our study adds to the evidence about the adverse cardiovascular effects of NSAIDs and confirms that they should be taken seriously and used only after consulting a healthcare professional.”