Expert's Opinion / Too many anti-inflammatories: what are the health consequences? Answers Dr Jean-Claude Bakpatina, General Practitioner

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Extract from the article: When the body is attacked by a microbe or a lesion, it defends itself. This reaction is called inflammation, and is often accompanied by redness, pain, heat and sometimes swelling. Anti-inflammatories are a group of drugs whose main function is to re

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When the body is attacked by a microbe or a lesion, it defends itself. This reaction is called inflammation, and is often accompanied by redness, pain, heat and sometimes swelling. Anti-inflammatories are a group of drugs whose main function is to reduce or even eliminate this inflammatory reaction. Anti-inflammatories are a large pharmaceutical class comprising a number of different drugs. Commonly used and effective, anti-inflammatories can become dangerous to health. 

Risk of stomach ulcers

Anti-inflammatories can cause stomach damage by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, substances involved in protecting the gastrointestinal mucosa. If you experience heartburn, gastric pain or nausea after taking anti-inflammatory drugs, talk to your doctor before taking them. Gastric complications usually occur after prolonged use, but can sometimes occur from the outset. Anti-inflammatories should therefore be taken with a meal and a glass of water, never on an empty stomach. Anti-inflammatory treatment should not be interrupted without medical advice. 

Risks for the heart

Taking anti-inflammatories is associated with a risk of heart and blood vessel disease. In patients already suffering from heart disease, it may increase the risk of complications linked to their condition.  If you already suffer from heart disease, anti-inflammatories should only be taken on the advice of your doctor, and under regular medical supervision. 

Toxic to the kidneys

Many drugs, once broken down in the body, are expelled by the kidneys. Prolonged use of anti-inflammatory drugs can impair the kidneys' ability to filter out waste products. Renal failure is the reduction or inability of the kidneys to perform their purifying role. People already suffering from heart, kidney or liver disease, and the elderly, are even more at risk.

Anti-inflammatories are contraindicated in cases of proven renal insufficiency. It is therefore important to always seek the advice of a healthcare professional before taking anti-inflammatory drugs.

Interview by Jean ELI