Real-world study links painkiller with higher risk of cardiac death

A study published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ) shows that a commonly-used painkiller, diclofenac, is associated with an elevated risk of adverse cardiovascular events compared with other painkillers.

Researchers say the therapy, which is marketed under brand names including Cataflam and Voltaren, should include clearer warnings about the risks.

The study is based on national registry data from Denmark which included over 6 million adults over a decade.