Ibuprofen May Raise Risk of Heart Attack

The painkiller ibuprofen can double the risk of heart attacks for those who take it regularly, a major survey confirmed.

Researchers compiled results of 138 trials covering 140,000 people to find the evidence on ibuprofen and diclofenac, a similar common drug.

It follows results three years ago, which led to the banning of new "inhibitor" drug Vioxx.

But scientists stress the double risk applies only to those taking high doses of the two drugs.

Dr. Colin Baigent, of the University of Oxford, said, "People who are popping these for the odd headache -- the risks to them are minimal."

Ibuprofen and diclofenac are in a family of drugs known as "non steroidal anti-inflammatories" and are usually used by people suffering chronic pain from conditions such as arthritis.

Researchers found a double risk of heart attacks for those on high levels of ibuprofen (800 milligrams three times daily) and diclofenac (72 milligrams twice a day).

Dr. Baigent said a high dose was considered to be "about twice what a normal person would take."

High doses increase risk >