Keep calm, and carry on taking your meds

31 May 2013

Keep calm, and carry on taking your meds

Arthritis New Zealand Chief Executive Sandra Kirby urged people living with arthritis to stay calm and keep taking their painkilling medications. But to seek professional advice if they have any concerns.

Ms Kirby was referring to the recently released results of a study that indicates an increased heart attack risk for people taking commonly prescribed painkillers. This study, along with other recent studies, highlights a significant challenge for people living with arthritis.

“Non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and diclofenac play a very important role in relieving pain and enabling people to participate in work and family life but, like all medications, come with some risk.”

“If people have any concerns about their likely risk, we would urge them to speak with their GP or pharmacist, or talk to one of our Arthritis Educators by phoning 0800 663 463 before taking any drastic actions like stopping taking their medication.”

“Finally, it is important to note that the risks identified are negligible for people who buy these medications over the counter and use them as instructed for a short time,” Ms Kirby concluded.

Arthritis New Zealand is a national organisation that raises awareness of the more than 140 forms of arthritis, advocates for those living with arthritis, funds research, and provides support through information and advice. There are more than 530,000 New Zealanders living with arthritis.

About Arthritis New Zealand
• Arthritis New Zealand is a national organisation whose mission is to improve the health and well-being of people who are affected by arthritis.
• There are 530,000 New Zealanders living with arthritis
• There are more than 140 different forms of arthritis of which osteoarthritis, gout and rheumatoid arthritis are the most prevalent
• You might be surprised to learn there are over 1,000 children and young people living with the pain of arthritis.
• ‘Arthritis it could surprise you.’
• Chances are someone you love lives with arthritis.
• Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in our country, and there is no cure. It can affect anyone, at any age, at any time.
• There are 17,940 people receiving sickness or invalids benefits as a result of musculo-skeletal conditions, the bulk of which will be arthritis.
• Arthritis New Zealand receives only 12 per cent of its funding from government agencies. Without the generosity of our donors and volunteers, we wouldn’t be able to help the over 530,000 New Zealanders who live with the pain of arthritis every day.
• Arthritis New Zealand is the leader in the provision of awareness, education, services and advocacy for arthritis in New Zealand.

ENDS

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