Pain Meds Can be Dangerous

Vioxx was taken off the market in 2004 because of an increased risk of heart attacks. Other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen, aspirin, Aleve, etc. were demoted to second tier status due to GI and kidney problems. Long-term use of acetaminophen (Tylenol) can contribute to liver or kidney problems. Now it is evident that low-dose narcotics increase falls and fractures, especially in the elderly. Perhaps it is time to officially endorse natural pain relievers such as glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, and boswellia. Pulse magnet fields, cold laser treatments, and the pain reduction technique by Dr. Stephen Kaufman can also be very effective in relieving either chronic or acute pain. These agents and procedures are safe and usually quite effective, in our experience at Celebration of Health Association. See Family Practice News(click here), March 1, 2012, page 1&9.