Blood thinners + NSAIDs = risk for serious internal bleeding

People taking blood thinners to prevent clots in their legs or lungs may put themselves at risk for serious internal bleeding if they also take common painkillers such as aspirin or ibuprofen, researchers warn in a new report. The report, published online April 14 in JAMA Internal Medicine, said the bleeding is often minor but can be fatal in some cases.. These over-the-counter painkillers -- called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) -- include such drugs as Advil, Aleve, Bufferin, Excedrin, Motrin and Nuprin, as well as aspirin. Patients who use blood thinners such as warfarin, Eliquis, Xarelto or Pradaxa should not take them, the researchers said. They recommend taking generic Tylenol [acetaminophen] instead for a headache or aching muscles or joints.