The 5 most dangerous pain medications
Cox-2 inhibitors (Celebrex, Celecoxib)
An analysis of two research studies as noted in the journal Circulation demonstrated that Celebrex doubles the risk of serious cardiovascular problems, including heart attacks, strokes, heart failure and death. It’s cousin, Vioxx has already been pulled from the market for causing the same problems.
NSAIDs (Advil, Alieve, ibuprofen, naproxen)
If you suffer from the chronic pain caused by arthritis, back pain, neck pain, or something else, there is a good chance that you have taken a NSAIDs medication. NSAIDs are known to cause gastrointestinal bleeding, abdominal pain, heartburn, nausea, cardiovascular problems and heart failure to name a few. In the U.S., 100,000 people who take NSAIDs are hospitalized each year and approximately 15,000 die.
Opiate-based pain medications (Vicodin, Lorcet, Norco, Percocet, Percodan, hydrocodone, oxycodone)
If you have ever had a major surgery, you have likely been given an opiate-based med. These drugs are a narcotic and are as addicting as heroin. They can lead to depression, overdoses, and death.
Acetaminophen (Tylenol, acetaminophen)
This is one of the most common over the counter medications used for aches and pains, so much so that most people don’t think twice about popping a pill or worse giving them to their kids. Every year, acetaminophen overdose is responsible for more than 56,000 emergency room visits, 2,600 hospitalizations, and an estimated 458 deaths due to acute liver failure. Acetaminophen poisoning is responsible for nearly HALF of ALL acute liver failure cases in the US. It can be toxic to your liver even at recommended doses when taken daily for just a couple of weeks
Salicylates (Aspirin, acetylsalicylate)
Many people have been told that taking an aspirin daily is safe and that it can prevent a heart attack. The research tells us that there is no evidence that this is true and that the risks far outweigh the benefits of taking it. Aspirin can lead to serious medical problems such as gastrointestinal and intracranial bleeds, ulcers, kidney failure, blindness, and many more.
While there may be times where your health is in crisis and you may feel the need to take these medications, please be aware of the dangerous effects these drugs may cause. Chiropractic care remains one of the safest and best options to help you become pain free and regain your health.
In Great Health,
Dr. Mike & Dr. Mark