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Author Spotlight: Exploring Huotan Jiedu Tongluo Decoction as an Antihypertensive Drug
Published on: May 17, 2024
Acetaminophen, Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs, and Hypertension
J David Spence1, Tilo Grosser2,3, Garret A FitzGerald2
1Stroke Prevention & Atherosclerosis Research Centre, Robarts Research Institute, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada (J.D.S.).
Abstract:
Acetaminophen is widely regarded as a safe therapy for pain and fever in patients with cardiovascular disease and those taking anticoagulants. However, recent studies report that acetaminophen, like most other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, increases blood pressure, and a formulation containing sodium increases cardiovascular risk. Those findings call into question guidelines recommending acetaminophen for patients with cardiovascular disease and pain, and those taking anticoagulants. We review evidence that acetaminophen has effects in common with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and its influence on coagulation via effects on vitamin K metabolism. Possible alternatives to acetaminophen for patients with pain are discussed.
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