Physical exercising is extremely healthy for your body and mind. However, intense exercising is likely to cause some pains and, sometimes, even injuries. Runners often use non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) to ease post-exercise aches, pains or injuries, but scientists from the Queen Mary’s University London and the University of Birmingham say that this might be a really bad idea.

Ibuprofen and other over-the-counter anti-inflammatories are commonly used by runners. These drugs ease the pains and in a way aid the recovery. However, scientists in UK are saying that these common anti-inflammatories can block protective prostaglandins in the stomach and prostaglandins that help maintain kidney function. In other words, these drugs can cause more bad than good, despite them being easily obtained in pharmacies.

Scientists surveyed 806 people with a mean age of 48. They were asked to answer some questions regarding sporting injuries and their use of anti-inflammatories. Scientists found that 88% of participants had used NSAIDs in the past 12 months. Absolute majority of the runners chose ibuprofen as their main drug in these situations. In fact, runners frequently take NSAIDs before or after running – 11 % of them admitted taking NSAIDs during race or exercise. Women were more likely to use NSAIDs after running than men.

But why using anti-inflammatories to ease pain after running is a bad idea? Well, a third of participants know exactly why that’s a bad idea – they experienced such side effects as gastrointestinal discomfort, heartburn, nausea and vomiting, diarrhoea and gastrointestinal bleeding. There are other problems too – NSAIDs can increase the risk of hyponatraemia – reduction in sodium caused by water overload during endurance races, which might be fatal. NSAIDs can also slow down healing and cause kidney problems.

Dr Anthony Cox, co-author of the study, said: “This high usage of NSAIDs, without full knowledge of adverse effect or cautions for use, is concerning. While prudent use of NSAIDs may be playing a valuable role in enabling individuals to participate in exercise they might otherwise avoid, we would recommend that organisers of longer endurance events should consider providing evidence‐based advice on the use of NSAIDs”.

All medicine is good if used for its intended purpose. Just because it is hurting after you run, you shouldn’t resort to anti-inflammatories. These are serious drugs that can cause significant damage if used inappropriately. It is always a good idea to consult your doctor first.

Source: University of Birmingham