Anti-inflammatory drugs: British doctor warns of stomach and heart risks

Anti inflammatory drugs such as aspirin and ibuprofen are among the most commonly used medications in the world. Millions of people rely on them every day to manage headaches, muscle pain, joint inflammation, fever, and chronic conditions such as arthritis. However, British physician Mark Porter, a well known medical correspondent for The Times, has issued a strong warning about their potential dangers. According to Dr. Porter, these medications, formally known as nonsteroidal anti inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, can significantly increase the risk of stomach ulcers, internal bleeding, and even life threatening complications when used incorrectly or for prolonged periods.

In the United Kingdom alone, tens of thousands of patients are admitted to hospitals each year due to gastric or duodenal ulcers linked to NSAID use. Dr. Porter explains that the most serious complications include bleeding and perforation of the stomach or intestinal wall. Among these, bleeding remains the greatest danger because it occurs far more frequently and can escalate rapidly if not detected early. Many patients underestimate the severity of these risks, especially because the drugs are widely available without prescription and are often perceived as harmless.

The reason these medications cause such damage lies in the way they work inside the body. NSAIDs reduce pain and inflammation by blocking enzymes that produce prostaglandins. While this effect helps relieve symptoms, prostaglandins also play a vital role in protecting the stomach lining by maintaining healthy mucus production and regulating stomach acid. When this protection is reduced, the stomach becomes vulnerable to irritation, ulcers, and bleeding. Over time, even low dose daily use can quietly erode the stomach lining and cause significant injury.

Common side effects include persistent indigestion and heartburn, elevated blood pressure, and a higher risk of heart attacks and strokes. In some individuals, especially those with pre existing respiratory conditions, NSAIDs may worsen asthma symptoms. Kidney damage is another potential consequence, particularly in older adults or those with existing kidney disease. These risks increase substantially with higher doses and long term use.

Dr. Porter also emphasizes that combining NSAIDs with other medications can dramatically multiply the danger. People who take an NSAID are about four times more likely to experience gastric bleeding than those who do not. When NSAIDs are taken together with antidepressants from the SSRI class, the risk rises to approximately seven times. The combination of NSAIDs and steroid medications is especially hazardous, pushing the risk to as much as twelve times higher. Such interactions are often overlooked by patients who self medicate without consulting their doctor.

To reduce harm, Dr. Porter advises that people who must use NSAIDs regularly should consider taking stomach protecting medications such as omeprazole or lansoprazole. These drugs decrease stomach acid production and help preserve the stomach lining, lowering the chance of ulcers and bleeding. He also encourages patients to choose paracetamol over ibuprofen or aspirin for common pain relief whenever possible. Although paracetamol may not be effective for everyone, it is far safer for the stomach and cardiovascular system when used within recommended limits.

Another critical warning concerns the combined use of aspirin and other NSAIDs. People already taking an NSAID should avoid aspirin unless specifically directed by a physician, as aspirin further interferes with blood clotting and significantly increases the risk of dangerous bleeding.

Anti inflammatory drugs remain valuable and effective medicines, but they are not without serious consequences. Dr. Porter urges the public to use them thoughtfully, avoid unnecessary combinations, follow dosage instructions carefully, and seek medical advice when long term use is needed. Protecting the stomach is not an optional precaution but an essential step in preventing potentially life threatening complications.