what are dangers of using Non-Steroid Anti-Inflammatories?

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The use of Non-Steroid Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, is common for alleviating pain and inflammation, but there are several concerns regarding their long-term use:

  1. Tolerance Development: People can quickly develop tolerance to NSAIDs, requiring higher doses for the same effect, which can be problematic due to potential side effects, including liver damage 1.

  2. Impact on Exercise Benefits: NSAIDs may offset some of the adaptive benefits of exercise, as inflammation is part of the adaptive response to exercise that leads to increased strength and endurance 1 2.

  3. Limited Efficacy for Some: For many individuals, NSAIDs may not work effectively, or they might stop working after initial uses 1.

  4. Body Temperature Effects: NSAIDs tend to lower body temperature, which can influence sleep-wake cycles, metabolism, and immune function 1 3.

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  5. Liver and Immune Impact: There's growing evidence that NSAIDs can adversely affect the liver and immune system, as well as the gut microbiome 4.

  6. Risk of Further Injury: By blocking pain signals, NSAIDs may mask the severity of an injury, leading to the potential for further harm because pain is an important signal that can prevent aggravating the injured area 2 5.

It's important to be cautious when using NSAIDs, and individuals are encouraged to look for potential side effects and consult with healthcare professionals before using them 4.

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