A prominent cardiologist is raising a red flag on the hidden, long-term health dangers associated with two of the most common over-the-counter medications found in Indian households: Ibuprofen and Omeprazole. While these drugs are go-to solutions for pain, fever, and acidity, their regular use may come with severe consequences for the heart, kidneys, and overall nutrient absorption.
The Alarming Side Effects of Common Medicine Cabinet Staples
Dr. Aurelio Rojas, a cardiologist with a massive following of over 1.1 million on Instagram, recently highlighted these risks in a viral video. He emphasised that the threat comes not from rare drugs, but from everyday medications people consume regularly, often without a second thought. His warnings are backed by research and official health advisories, including one from the UK's National Health Service (NHS).
The NHS specifically advises against taking over-the-counter Omeprazole for longer than two weeks. This prescription medication was dispensed a staggering 73 million times in the UK alone across 2022 and 2023. Its long-term use is linked to depleted levels of essential vitamins and weakened bones.
How Omeprazole Can Harm Your Health
Dr. Rojas explains that while Omeprazole effectively reduces stomach acid, its regular intake can be detrimental. "If you take it regularly, it may alter the absorption of magnesium, iron and vitamin B12. This affects your energy, your recovery and the health of your heart," he stated. By disrupting gut health and nutrient levels, the drug meant to protect your stomach could be silently compromising your cardiovascular system.
A 2020 study published in PLOS ONE found an association between Omeprazole use and the progression of chronic kidney disease. Furthermore, a 2015 Stanford University School of Medicine study indicated that Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI) use, which includes Omeprazole, was linked to a roughly 20% increase in the risk of a subsequent heart attack.
The Workout Danger: Ibuprofen's Hidden Threat
The warning for Ibuprofen and related NSAIDs like diclofenac and naproxen is particularly crucial for fitness enthusiasts. Dr. Rojas points out a dangerous trend: "What I often see is people taking ibuprofen, diclofenac, or naproxen to relieve muscle pain before training, and who also use omeprazole to protect their stomach."
This combination, especially when coupled with dehydration during exercise, can be a recipe for disaster. These drugs reduce renal and cardiovascular circulation, increasing the risk of acute kidney injury and even a heart attack. A 2021 JAMA study confirmed that high dosages of Ibuprofen were associated with acute kidney injury (AKI).
A major 2013 study from the University of Oxford found that high doses of diclofenac and ibuprofen increased the risk of a major vascular event (like a heart attack or stroke) by about one-third.
Scientific Backing and The Final Verdict
The evidence suggests Dr. Rojas's concerns are valid. The collective research paints a clear picture: the habitual, long-term, or pre-workout use of these common medications carries significant risks that outweigh the short-term relief for many healthy individuals.
The key takeaway is to exercise caution. These drugs are powerful and should not be used casually as a daily supplement or a pre-emptive measure before physical activity. Avoiding these popular meds before training, especially if you exercise regularly, can be a protective measure for your long-term kidney and heart health.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication or treatment regimen.
