Patients who take blood-thinning drugs to lower their risk of developing blood clots from such conditions as abnormal heart rhythms should avoid taking painkilling drugs known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The trouble is that many patients taking blood thinners are older and, therefore, at increased risk for arthritis. Consequently, they may take common NSAIDs such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen to relieve arthritis pain. Because NSAIDs affect the way that platelets work, they could interfere with normal blood clotting, which could raise the risk of bleeding. Taking NSAIDs with blood-thinners (such as warfarin) raises the bleeding risk even more, which is certainly to be avoided. While patients who take blood thinning drugs may take acetaminophen (Tylenol) to relieve pain, high doese come with the potential risk of increasing the effect of warfarin. This is an issue that should be discussed with the prescribing physician.
If you are taking over-the-counter NSAIDs, be sure to advise your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. If you are considering taking aspirin to relieve pain, you should consult with a medical professional. We recommend filling all your medications at one pharmacy. This will help your Pharmacist give you the best advice for treatment plans. At Med-Fast Pharmacy, our pharmacists are experts and have years of experience. We are here to help you and your family.
