Is it Safe to Take Advil, Aleve and other…
FDA strengthens warning that non-aspirin nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can cause heart attacks or strokes.
The Food and Drug Administration warns that pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin and generic) and naproxen (Aleve and generic), also known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, have an increased risk of triggering a heart attack or stroke, even if you don’t have an existing heart condition. Besides ibuprofen and naproxen, the warning also applies to prescription NSAIDs, such as celecoxib (Celebrex), diclofenac (Cambia, Voltaren, and others), and meloxicam (Mobic). Aspirin is not included in the FDA’s warning. For a complete list, see the FDA’s announcement here.
Per the FDA, patients taking NSAIDs should seek immediate medical attention if they experience chest pain, shortness of breath or trouble breathing, weakness in one part or side of their body, or slurred speech. Be sure to discuss these risks with your doctor, if you are prescribed any of these medications.