ANALGESIC DRUG USE IN PATIENTS WITH HYPERTENSION AND CORONARY ARTERY DISEASE

Abstract

Objective: Purpose: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used in the management of pain in a variety of conditions. Available data clearly indicate that the NSAIDs use is associated with a number of adverse effects especially in patients with cardiovascular disease. The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence and frequency of analgesic drug use in patients with coronary heart disease and knowledge about possible interactions of these drugs with conventional cardiac therapy. Design and method: Materials/methods: The study included 183 patients with ischaemic heart disease hospitalized in the tertiary cardiological centre. Majority of patients from the study group had hypertension (n = 141; 77.0 %). Data on the use of analgesics and patients’ knowledge about their safety were collected using self-prepared questionnaire. Information about current medication, accompanying diseases and blood-test results were checked in patients’ medical records. Results: In the examined group regular use of analgesic drugs (defined as at least 3 times per week) was reported by 29 subjects (15.8%). The most frequently used analgesics were NSAIDs and paracetamol, with their regular use reported by 7.0% and 8.8 % of respondents respectively. The majority of patients using NSAIDs were not aware about their possible interactions with antiplatelet therapy and did not consult the use of analgesics with the physician. Only 19.8% of patients admitted that they received the information about analgesics from their doctor. Conclusions: The regular use of analgesic drugs by 15.8% of patients with coronary artery disease is a significant concern. Patients with coronary heart disease should be provided with detailed information and recommendations about safe analgesic therapy and alternatives for NSAIDs.