A new study suggests that those taking Celebrex^® for arthritis may be increasing their risk for a heart attack or stroke.

According to researchers from the University of Michigan, adults who take an aspirin to prevent heart complications in addition to Celebrex^® for joint pain are counteracting their medications.

“The greatest risk is having people take Celebrex^® who are taking aspirin for cardiovascular problems that are known to be mitigated by aspirin, including patients with unstable angina or those at risk for a second heart attack,” said study author Minor Coon.

The study reveals that Celebrex^® keeps aspirin from doing its job effectively, leaving patients at risk for having a stroke. It’s reported that nearly half of all men over the age of 50 are prescribed a low-dose aspirin to help protect them against heart complications. Unfortunately, Celebrex^® is one of the more commonly prescribed medications for those suffering from arthritis, most of whom are over the age of 50.

An alternative to Celebrex^® would be to take a nutritional supplement for arthritis and joint pain such as ginko and curcumin.