Question:
Does taking narcotics to treat my pain increase my risk of dying or being hospitalized more than taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDS)?
Answer:
Yes
MedHead Confidence Score: 5
Amount Saved: $10,000 cost of hospitalization
MedHead Message:
There are side effects to taking narcotic as well as anti inflammatory medications. However, the overall weight of evidence appears to show that any narcotic pain use, such as Vicodin or Percocet increases your risk of death or hospitalization more than ibuprofen, naproxen, or other NSAID medications.
References:
1. Solomon DH, Rassen JA. The comparative safety of analgesics in older adults with arthritis.Arch Intern Med. 2010 Dec 13;170(22):1968-76. 2. Fassio V, et. al. Trends in opioid and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory use and adverse events. Am J Manag Care. 2018 Mar 1;24(3):e61-e72. 3. https://www.parting.com/blog/funeral-costs-how-much-does-an-average-funeral-cost/
