The NHS has issued advice that some people taking ibuprofen may need to stop or check with a doctor before continuing. Ibuprofen is a common painkiller used to reduce pain and swelling, but the health service warns it is not suitable for everyone.
Kidney Care UK has joined with the National Pharmacy Association (NPA), which represents around 6,000 independent community pharmacies in the UK, to warn patients not to over-rely on non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen.
Kidney risk warning
Kidney Care UK said: "Around one in four people who completed our Kidney Health Checker told us they regularly use over-the-counter medication for pain relief, but NSAIDs increase blood pressure and cause damage to the blood vessels inside the kidneys."
The charity added: "Our recent survey also found out that around three quarters of people living with chronic kidney disease (CKD) were unaware, prior to their diagnosis, that NSAIDs could have a negative impact on kidney function if used long term or in high doses."
Olivier Picard, Chair of the National Pharmacy Association, said: "Medicines have the power to harm as well as to heal. Although NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, are effective and safe medicines, patients should be aware of their impact, particularly if a patient is at increased risk of developing kidney disease, and consider alternative medication where appropriate. If a patient has concerns about their usage of NSAIDs, they should speak to their pharmacist who can advise them. Pharmacists are experts in medicines and are best placed to offer advice to people who may be concerned about any potential long-term effect of some medicines and can help patients effectively manage pain."
Who should avoid ibuprofen
Ibuprofen is a type of NSAID that can help with headaches, migraines, joint pain, muscle pain, pain after an injury, toothache, period pain, and reducing a high temperature.
While the NHS notes that most adults can use it, it cautions that ibuprofen is not suitable for everyone. It may not be suitable if you have had an allergic reaction to ibuprofen, aspirin or another NSAID; have a stomach ulcer or have had them before; have asthma or allergies such as hay fever; have chickenpox; have a heart, liver or kidney condition; have problems with blood clotting; have had a stroke; or are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
The NHS advises: "Check the packet or leaflet that comes with your medicine to see if it's suitable for you. Speak to a pharmacist or doctor if you're not sure if you can use it."
Pregnancy, breastfeeding and other medicines
On breastfeeding, the NHS says: "If you're breastfeeding, check with a pharmacist or doctor before using ibuprofen." It adds: "It's rare for breastfed babies to get any side effects from medicine you're taking, but speak to a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about your baby."
During pregnancy, the NHS says: "You should avoid using ibuprofen during pregnancy unless you're advised to by a doctor or pharmacist. Paracetamol is usually the best painkiller to take if you're pregnant."
Ibuprofen may not mix well with some medicines, remedies and supplements, including anticoagulants such as warfarin, steroid medicines, antidepressants, and medicines to lower blood pressure. The NHS advises eating and drinking as normal but avoiding lots of alcohol as it can raise the risk of side effects.
The NHS says never take ibuprofen "at the same time as other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as naproxen or aspirin. This can increase the risk of serious side effects like stomach ulcers."
Side effects and how long to take it
Common side effects of ibuprofen include indigestion, stomach aches, feeling sick, being sick, headaches, a rash, dizziness, diarrhoea and constipation. Serious side effects are rare but include stomach ulcers or bleeding inside the stomach, an allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), and a problem with your kidneys.
In a warning titled "important", the NHS says: "To reduce the risk of side effects, take the smallest dose you need for the shortest time you need it. Do not take ibuprofen tablets and capsules for more than 10 days unless advised to by a doctor." For other types of ibuprofen, check the packet or leaflet to see how long you can use it. See a GP if your pain gets worse or does not go away.
