Last Updated on June 10, 2022 by Nurse Vicky
Which Pain Reliever Is Not A Blood Thief?
This article discusses NSAIDs – nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs – and the risks and benefits of a number of over-the-counter pain relievers.
These drugs have multiple uses, including pain relief, fever reduction, and cold remedies. But they are not without risk, and those who are already on a blood thinner should be aware of the warning signs and ingredients.
Read the ingredients label before taking any medication.
Tylenol
Although it’s widely accepted that Tylenol isn’t a blood thinner, you may be confused about how it works.
Many people are not aware that it contains acetaminophen, which is found in a number of drugs, including aspirin and other anti-inflammatory medications.
While acetaminophen doesn’t have a blood-thinning effect, it can be dangerous if taken in excess. In fact, it is the leading cause of acute liver failure.
Acetaminophen
While acetaminophen is a well-established painkiller, it does not act as a blood thinner.
While it has a long list of potential side effects, acetaminophen does not cause serious health risks. Most of these effects are minor and generally reversible.
Some of them are, however, worse than the potential side effects. In addition to these common side effects, acetaminophen may cause liver and kidney damage.
Aspirin
Aspirin is one of the oldest medicines in the world. It has been used for pain relief for over two thousand years.
Its active ingredient is salicin, which comes from the leaves and bark of the willow tree. A German company developed a synthetic version of aspirin in 1897.
Among its benefits is reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke. When taken daily, low doses of aspirin can help prevent heart attacks, strokes, and colon cancer.
Other NSAIDs
Some people who take NSAIDs for pain relief are also at risk of developing Reye syndrome.
This condition is a result of excessive use of anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin. People who are at risk for this condition also take other medications, such as blood pressure medicines and low-dose aspirin.
NSAIDs can also interact with certain blood thinners, such as warfarin, which is prescribed to treat and prevent blood clots.
In addition, NSAIDs and anticoagulants should not be combined with lithium, which is a common side effect of NSAIDs and is dangerous when taken with anticoagulant drugs.
Salicylates
Aspirin is a common blood thinner, and aspirin is derived from salicylates.
While many people assume aspirin is a blood thinner, it is not. It is a naturally occurring acid found in a variety of plants.
In small amounts, it can help prevent excessive blood clotting and may be prescribed for people at risk of developing heart disease or stroke. However, it should not be confused with salicylates, which are different.
Glucosamine
Glucosamine is a type of glycosaminoglycan or amino sugar. It’s the building block of cartilage.
It is extracted from shellfish, including crab, shrimp, and lobster. It is also patentable.
Glucosamine is not a blood thinner, but it may provide modest pain relief. People with arthritis may find it beneficial.
MSM
MSM isn’t a blood thinner, but it may help your body fight inflammation. It reduces the production of cytokines, a type of protein linked to systemic inflammation.
It also boosts glutathione, a powerful antioxidant. Studies show that MSM can speed up muscle recovery after vigorous exercise and reduce oxidative stress.
This substance also prevents the immune system from overstressing itself after strenuous physical activity.
Conclusion
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