A cardiologist is sounding an alarm on the unknown side effects of these medications. Ibuprofen and Omeprazole are two medications that are extremely popular over-the-counter medications for people facing pain, fever and heartburn. Known to solve the symptoms quickly, these drugs share a permanent space in home closets. But now, a cardiologist is sounding an alarm on the unknown side effects of these medications. Even the NHS has issued a warning about one of the drugs, omeprazole, which is a prescribed medication given to patients over 73 million times across 2022 and 2023 alone.
Side effects for Omeprazole and Ibuprofen
Long-term effects of Omeprazole include low vitamin levels and weakened bones. The NHS has even advised not to ‘take omeprazole for longer than two weeks if you bought it without a prescription’. Ibuprofen on the other hand can increase the likelihood of stomach ulcers. In addition to this, both drugs can pose other health issues, as per Dr Aurelio Rojas, who boasts over 1.1 million followers on Instagram. Taking to the social media app, he posted a video in Spanish, sharing what people must be wary of when it comes to Omeprazole, ibuprofen, other painkillers, nasal decongestants and even antidepressants. “I’m not talking about unusual medications – I’m referring to the ones you take on a regular basis. And many people take them without realising it,” he said as per a report by The Mirror.
Omeprazole
As per Dr Rojas, this medicine can be detrimental to your health. “If you take it regularly, it may alter the absorption of magnesium, iron and vitamin B12. This affects your energy, your recovery and the health of your heart,” he added. While Omeprazole can protect the stomach by reducing acidity, its long-term use can hurt the gut. It may be disrupting your nutrient levels and compromising your heart health.
Ibuprofen
As per the doc, taking ibuprofen, diclofenac and naproxen prior to a workout can damage the kidneys and increase the risk of a heart attack, especially if you are dehydrated. “What I often see is people taking ibuprofen, diclofenac, or naproxen to relieve muscle pain before training, and who also use omeprazole to protect their stomach,” he explained.These medications reduce inflammation and pain, but they also affect renal and cardiovascular circulation, especially when taken before training. This is also the case with other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).Combined with dehydration, these drugs can increase the risk of kidney damage or even a heart attack.
Is this true?
Well, it seems the doctor is right. As per a 2013 University of Oxford press release, a study funded by the Medical Research Council and the British Heart Foundation, found that high doses of diclofenac and ibuprofen increased the risk of a major vascular event (heart attack, stroke or dying from cardiovascular disease) by around one third.Another 2021 JAMA study found that high dosages of ibuprofen were associated with acute kidney injury (AKI).A 2020 PLOS ONE study found an association between omeprazole use and progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD). As for heart risk, a 2015 Stanford University School of Medicine study, found that PPI use was associated with a roughly 20 per cent increase in the rate of subsequent heart-attack risk among all adult PPI users. Thus, avoiding taking these popular meds before training or if you train regularly, can be protective for your overall health. Note: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new medication or treatment and before changing your diet or supplement regimen.