We've known for a while that taking NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), like ibuprofen, naproxen sodium, and COX-2 inhibitors such as diclofenac, nudges up your risk of developing a blood clot -- especially if you're a smoker or previously have had blood clots. Contraceptives that contain higher amounts of estrogen, as is the case with birth control pills, rings and patches, and some intrauterine devices, are also known to increase your risk (which is why I suggest talking to your doc about taking a daily low-dose aspirin with water before and after if you use them).
But what if you use estrogen-containing contraception and NSAIDs together? A study involving around 2 million women found that the duo increases the risk of blood clots in the lungs and legs. Untreated, blood clots in the lungs can be lethal up to 30% of the time and they can migrate from the legs, triggering a heart attack or stroke.
Researchers, writing in the journal BMJ, looked at 20 years of data on women 15-49 years old and say that while four out of 100,000 women per week using an NSAID develop a blood clot, and two in 100,000 using high-risk contraceptives do. And when both drugs are taken that goes up to 23 of every 100,000 women. The researchers suggest high-risk women consider using progestin-only oral contraceptives or IUDs. My advice: With estrogen-containing contraception, take aspirin (half a glass of water before and after) for pain instead of NSAIDs; you get clot prevention as well. Remember to gain approval from your doc first.
Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.longevityplaybook.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@longevityplaybook.com.
(c)2023 Michael Roizen, M.D.
Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
(c) 2023 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
