A recent study published in the European Heart Journal warns that combining non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, with blood thinners significantly increases the risk of internal bleeding. Blood thinners are commonly prescribed to prevent or treat conditions like strokes, heart attacks, or blood clots in the legs or lungs. However, NSAIDs also have blood-thinning effects, which may compound the risk.
The research, conducted at Aarhus University Hospital in Denmark, analyzed data from 52,000 patients prescribed blood thinners between 2012 and 2022. Findings revealed that patients using both medications faced twice the risk of internal bleeding compared to those solely on blood thinners. Specific risks were four times higher for naproxen, three times for diclofenac, and nearly twice for ibuprofen. Bleeding risks affected multiple organs, including the gut (2.2 times), brain (3.2 times), lungs (1.4 times), and urinary tract (1.6 times).
The study also found a threefold increase in anemia risk among patients taking NSAIDs with blood thinners, with these effects consistent across anticoagulants like warfarin, rivaroxaban, apixaban, and dabigatran. Researchers emphasize consulting a doctor before combining these medications and suggest limiting NSAIDs to the lowest dose and shortest duration if unavoidable.
Dr. Robert Storey from the University of Sheffield advocates for avoiding NSAID use with blood thinners to minimize complications, urging careful prescription practices for safer outcomes.
