The NHS has issued a warning against taking ibuprofen alongside certain medications, highlighting potential risks of stomach bleeding and kidney problems. Ibuprofen, a widely used over-the-counter painkiller, belongs to a group of drugs known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It is commonly sold under brand names such as Nurofen, Calprofen, and Ibuleve.
How Ibuprofen Works
Ibuprofen works by blocking hormones that cause inflammation and pain, treating conditions like back pain, period pain, toothache, and symptoms of cold, flu, or COVID-19. However, improper use can lead to side effects, especially when combined with other medications.
Drugs to Avoid Mixing with Ibuprofen
The NHS advises against taking ibuprofen simultaneously with other NSAIDs, including aspirin and naproxen. Combining these increases the risk of side effects such as stomach bleeding and kidney problems. Additionally, ibuprofen is present in some cough and cold remedies, so it is essential to check labels before taking any other medicines.
Common Side Effects
- Indigestion and stomach pain
- Feeling sick and being sick
- Headaches
- Rashes
- Feeling dizzy
- Diarrhoea or constipation
Serious Side Effects
- Stomach ulcers or bleeding in your stomach – signs include tummy pain, breathlessness, pale skin, vomiting blood, or passing black, sticky, tar-like poo
- An allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) – symptoms include a swollen throat or tongue, a raised, itchy rash, or difficulty breathing
- Kidney problems – signs include breathlessness, blood in your pee, or swelling in your ankles, feet, or hands
The NHS warns that the risk of serious side effects is higher when taking high doses of ibuprofen or using it for extended periods.
Medications That Require Caution
Before taking ibuprofen, inform your GP if you are using any of the following:
- Blood-thinning medications, including warfarin
- Treatments for high blood pressure
- Steroid medicines such as betamethasone, dexamethasone, hydrocortisone, or prednisolone
- Antibiotic medications including ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, moxifloxacin, norfloxacin, or ofloxacin
- Antidepressants such as citalopram, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, venlafaxine, paroxetine, or sertraline
- Diabetes medicines including gliclazide, glimepiride, glipizide, or tolbutamide
Additionally, mixing ibuprofen with ginkgo biloba supplements can increase the chance of bleeding.
When to Seek Medical Help
The NHS recommends seeking urgent medical attention or calling 111 if you experience dark-coloured stools or blood in your vomit (possible signs of stomach bleeding), or swollen ankles, blood in your urine, or no urination (potential indicators of kidney problems). Other NSAIDs include diclofenac, celecoxib, mefenamic acid, etoricoxib, and indomethacin.
