One of the hypocrisies of drug-only prescribing doctors is pointing out problems with the dietary supplement industry. While it is true that there can be issues with quality and potency with some dietary supplements, the same is also true with over-the-counter and prescription drugs. For example, the Food and Drug Administration maintains a website that summarizes recalls of drugs, supplements, medical devices, and other products. Recently, Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, a company with a manufacturing plant in India, recalled several products sold in America. Two products recalled by this company were acetaminophen and ibuprofen, two common over-the-counter pain relievers, with distribution to Amazon and Walmart. The claim that dietary supplements pose a health risk to consumers due to quality control and that only pharmaceuticals have safety is false. One only needs to look at the long list of drugs recalled every year.
The use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) by Americans is quite common. A recent article by the American Heart Association summarized a poll on over-the-counter pain reliever use by adults. The results were that nearly 50% took these pain medications once a week or more. The age group most likely to take over-the-counter pain meds is adults aged 45-54. While short-term use of these drugs is generally safe, one should be aware of the following potential serious side effects:
Liver Failure
Low levels of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets
Dizziness
Disorientation
Hives
Shortness of breath
Kidney toxicity
Gastrointestinal bleeding
Recommendation
NSAIDs are best used for short periods. Check with your doctor to ensure no interaction with other medications. The use of NSAIDs increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, including blood clots, heart attack, and stroke. These medications also increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, especially in elderly patients. As an alternative, consider natural pain relievers such as palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) and turmeric extract.
