Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are not associated with more severe coronavirus disease says new study

The use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen is not associated with any adverse effects in people who have tested positive for COVID-19, according to a new study in PLOS Medicine.

During the early phases of the COVID-19 pandemic, concerns were raised that the use of the painkiller ibuprofen may lead to a more severe course of COVID-19.

Now researchers have looked at data from 9,326 Danish people who tested positive for COVID-19. Data were available on NSAID use, 30-day mortality, hospitalization, ICU admission, mechanical ventilation, and acute renal replacement therapy. Almost 250 people (2.7%) had filled a prescription for NSAIDs within 30 days of their positive virus test.

The researchers found no association between any of the outcomes and NSAID use.

“Considering the available evidence, there is no reason to withdraw well-indicated use of NSAIDs during the [COVID-19] pandemic,” the authors say. “However, the well-established adverse effects of NSAIDs, particularly their renal, gastrointestinal, and cardiovascular effects, should always be considered, and NSAIDs should be used in the lowest possible dose for the shortest possible duration for all patients.”

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