Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs are among the most popular pain relievers in the pharmacy. They are available without a prescription under names such as Advil, Motrin IB or Aleve. Doctors prescribe Celebrex, diclofenac, meloxicam and naproxen. Such drugs can ease aches and pains, but they come with a long list of side effects. Physicians have known for decades that NSAIDs can irritate the digestive tract and lead to ulcers. More recently there have been warnings about high blood pressure and a risk of cardiovascular complications including heart rhythm disturbances.
Now a new study from Canada suggests that these medications may also increase the risk of miscarriages. More than 50,000 Quebec women were included in the study. Approximately 4700 had a miscarriage. Of these, 7.5 percent had taken an NSAID during the pregnancy, compared to 3 percent of the women who had not experienced miscarriage. Pregnant women should check with their doctors before taking any medication, including OTC pain relievers. [Canadian Medical Association Journal, Sept. 6, 2011]
