In some people with type 2 diabetes, taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), a class of medications that includes over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), was associated with a higher risk of developing heart failure, according to a recent study presented at the 2022 meeting of the European Society of Cardiology in Barcelona and detailed in an article at HealthDay.


Link between, heart failure, diabetes and NSAIDs 

Heart failure is the inability of the heart to efficiently pump blood throughout the body. It might occur abruptly, requiring emergency medical treatment, or it can be a chronic illness that is normally controlled with drugs.

Compared to the general population, people with type 2 diabetes are more likely to get heart failure and other cardiovascular disorders. Heart failure is exacerbated by abnormal fluid retention, which is also a less well-known NSAID adverse effect.


What health and diseases study say:

Holt and colleagues identified 334,950 patients with type 2 diabetes between 1998 and 2018 using the national Danish health records in order to determine the effects of NSAID usage on heart failure in people with type 2 diabetes. The patients in the trial did not have a history of heart failure or long-term NSAID usage, and they were monitored beginning 120 days after diagnosis.

Utilizing prescriptions, NSAID use was measured. Celecoxib and naproxen were infrequently used, while diclofenac (4.9%) and ibuprofen (15.5%) were both taken at least once during a year of follow-up. A total of 23,308 patients were hospitalized for heart failure for the first time over the median 5.85 years of follow-up.

Hospitalization for new-onset heart failure was 30% more common among people who had taken ibuprofen or diclofenac during the previous 28 days but not celecoxib or naproxen.

When the sample was divided into subgroups, individuals with well-controlled blood glucose levels did not show any connection with heart failure hospitalization. When only people under the age of 65 were included in the research, the relationship, which was robust in those over 65, vanished. The highest association between NSAID usage and heart failure was shown in people who used the medications seldom or for the first time.


Research and study Conclusions

The researchers stated that taking NSAIDs may increase the risk of heart failure for some people by promoting fluid retention and altering the blood vessel lining in a way that increases blood pressure. However, for many individuals, these effects can be negligible enough to not significantly increase the risk of heart failure.

The researchers came to the conclusion that persons with type 2 diabetes, particularly those with higher blood glucose levels, may need to use more caution when receiving or using NSAIDs. Among fact, they claimed, there was no proof that taking NSAIDs increases the risk of heart failure hospitalization in diabetics with normal blood glucose levels.


Maintain Heart Health as a diabetic

You can control your diabetes and reduce your risk of heart disease by making the following lifestyle changes:

Be aware of the NSAIDs. Keep in mind that NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, might harm your kidneys if you take them frequently for arthritis, headaches, or chronic pain. They are clearly not a very smart option for Type 2 diabetics, due to the heart complications it might bring for diabetics.

People who sometimes take the medication without kidney problems are probably safe. However, if you regularly use these medications, your kidney health may also be at risk. If you're dealing with discomfort, talk to your doctor about kidney-safe medications.

Stress management. Stress can cause harmful habits like binge drinking or overeating as well as elevate blood pressure. Visit a mental health counselor instead, practice deep breathing exercises or meditation, engage in some physical activity, or get help from loved ones and friends.

Maintain a balanced diet. Consume more whole grains, lean protein, and fresh produce. Trans fat should be avoided, as should processed meals like fast food, candy, and chips. Drink extra water and steer clear of sugary beverages and alcohol.

Aim to maintain a healthy weight. If you are overweight, even a small weight loss will reduce your blood sugar and triglycerides. 5% to 7% of body weight, or 10 to 14 pounds for a 200-pound individual, is considered a modest weight reduction.

Get Active. Being physically active increases your body's sensitivity to insulin, which helps you control your diabetes by allowing your cells to use blood sugar as fuel. Additionally, exercise decreases your risk of heart disease and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Try to engage in 150 minutes or more of physical exercise of a moderate level per week, such as brisk walking.

Control the ABCs:

A: To assess your average blood sugar over two to three months, have a regular A1C test; try to maintain as much of your blood sugar within the target range as you can.

B: Attempt to maintain a blood pressure of less than 140/90 mm Hg (or the target your doctor sets).

C: Keep your cholesterol under control.

S: Stop smoking or refrain from starting.