Heart attack and stroke risk discovered for over-the-counter painkillers

The Therapeutic Goods Administration has issued a new warning about the link between serious heart problems and a number of popular over-the-counter painkillers.

The warning relates to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which are widely used to treat arthritis, rheumatism, muscle strains, headaches and period pain.

These drugs include Ibuprofen, Diclofenac and Naproxen which are the main ingredients in Nurofen, Voltaren and Naprogesic respectively.

High-dose versions of these drugs already come with a warning of an increased risk of high blood pressure, heart failure and stroke, however the TGA has found the low-dose over-the-counter versions come with the same risks.

Anyone with a pre-existing heart condition is being urged to consult a health professional before taking this type of medication.