Venous thromboembolism,a potential risk associated with concurrent use of hormonal birth control & NSAIDS
Anti-inflammatory meaning
NSAID meaning is nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or substances or medications that reduce or inhibit inflammation in the body. Inflammation is the body’s natural response to injury or infection, characterized by redness, swelling, pain, and heat.
Anti-inflammatory agents work to alleviate these symptoms and promote the body’s healing process by reducing inflammation.
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs, are a class of NSAID medications commonly used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation in various medical conditions.
They work by inhibiting certain enzymes responsible for inflammation and pain responses. Women may use these drugs for a range of health concerns, such as menstrual cramps, headaches, muscle pain, or joint pain related to conditions like arthritis.
Additionally, healthcare providers often prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to manage pain and discomfort associated with gynecological conditions or surgeries
Breaking Research: Blood Clot Risk Higher with NSAIDs and Birth Control
Recent research has brought attention to a potential risk associated with the concurrent use of NSAID drugs and hormonal birth control methods among women.
In an observational study conducted in Denmark and published in “The BMJ,” researchers explored the relationship between these commonly used medications and the development of blood clots in veins, a condition known as venous thromboembolism.
The study involved an extensive analysis of medical records spanning from 1996 to 2017, focusing on women aged 15 to 49 who had never experienced blood clots, cancer, infertility treatments, or uterine surgeries.
The researchers tracked prescriptions for both hormonal birth control and NSAIDs using Denmark’s National Registry of Medicinal Product Statistics.
Their findings raised concerns regarding the combination of Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs and hormonal contraception. The study categorized hormonal contraceptives into different risk levels based on previous research into blood clot risks associated with their use.
“High-risk” contraceptives included combined estrogen and progestin patches, vaginal rings, and pills containing 50 micrograms of estrogen.
“Medium-risk” options consisted of combined oral contraceptives and Depo-Provera (medroxyprogesterone injections), while “low” or “no-risk” contraceptives included progestin-only tablets, implants, and hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs).
The results indicated that using NSAIDs alone was linked to a slightly elevated risk of blood clots. However, when combined with medium-to-high-risk hormonal contraception, the risk increased further.
Notably, the combined risk was highest among women using high-risk contraception methods. For those not using hormonal contraception, the study estimated that for every 100,000 women using NSAIDs for a week, an extra four would develop a blood clot compared to those who did not use NSAIDs.
This number increased to 11 for women on medium-risk contraception and 23 for those on high-risk contraception.
While the study suggests a potential synergistic drug interaction between Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs and high-risk hormonal contraception, the authors emphasize that further research is needed to determine the exact mechanisms and existence of such an interaction.
It is essential to recognize that this research is observational and does not establish direct causation between these medications and blood clot formation.
These findings underscore the importance of healthcare providers and patients discussing medication choices, especially when considering the potential risks associated with these drugs and specific types of hormonal birth control.
Additionally, it’s crucial to keep in mind that the absolute risk of VTE associated with this combination remains relatively low, even for the highest-risk group, at around 0.02% of women.
NSAIDs LIST
Some NSAIDs are available over the counter (OTC), which means you can purchase them without a prescription from a healthcare provider.NSAIDs should be used for short-term pain relief. Long-term use can have side effects. Consider gastrointestinal protection if used regularly. Common OTC NSAIDs include:
- Ibuprofen
- Naproxen
- Diclofenac
- Aspirin
- Celecoxib
- Meloxicam
- Indomethacin
- Ketoprofen
- Etodolac
- Nabumetone
NSAID Examples
NSAID Aspirin and Its Role in the Health of Older Adults
Aspirin,a household name often associated with pain relief, has garnered attention in recent years for its potential benefits in the health of older adults. This humble over-the-counter medication (NSAIDs)has a long history of use, but it’s in the realm of aging that its importance is increasingly being recognized.
In this article, we will delve into why older adults turn to aspirin and what recent research has unveiled about its effects on their health.
Why older Adults Use Aspirin (the NSAIDs).
As people age, they often face a multitude of health concerns and potential risks. Aspirin, with its antiplatelet and anti-inflammatory properties, is utilized by older adults for several reasons:
- Cardiovascular Health: Aspirin is prescribed to some older adults to reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. It helps by preventing the formation of blood clots, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals with certain cardiovascular conditions or risk factors.
- Pain Relief: Many older adults turn to aspirin for pain relief, whether it’s for chronic conditions like arthritis or everyday aches and pains.
- Anti-Inflammatory Benefits: Aspirin’s anti-inflammatory properties make it valuable for managing conditions characterized by inflammation, such as osteoarthritis.
- Fever Reduction: It remains a trusted choice for reducing fever, a symptom that can be especially concerning for older individuals.
- Stroke Prevention: Some older adults, especially those at risk of ischemic strokes, may be prescribed aspirin as a preventive measure.
Recent Research on Aspirin in Older Adults
One notable study, the ASPREE trial (Aspirin in Reducing Events in the Elderly), brought to light some unexpected findings. The trial followed over 18,000 initially healthy older adults in Australia and the USA.
It revealed that prolonged daily aspirin use was associated with a 20% increased risk of anemia in individuals predominantly aged 70 and above.
Anemia, characterized by a lower-than-normal level of red blood cells, can lead to symptoms like fatigue, reduced cognitive function, and increased frailty in older adults.
The study highlighted not only the importance of monitoring anemia risk but also the need for healthcare providers to evaluate the long-term use of aspirin in older patients.
Bottom line
Aspirin’s role in the health of older adults is multifaceted. While it continues to be a trusted ally in managing pain, reducing inflammation, and preventing cardiovascular events, recent research has uncovered potential risks, such as an increased risk of anemia.
As older adults navigate their unique health challenges, it’s crucial for them to have open and informed discussions with their healthcare providers regarding the use of aspirin, weighing its benefits against potential risks.
This ensures that aspirin is used judiciously as a tool to support the health and well-being of older individuals.
