Over-the-counter painkillers can be a godsend for many Brits who suffer from everyday aches and pains. Health issues such as headaches, back pain and colds can often be alleviated by taking some kind of common painkiller.
One of the most commonly used painkillers in the UK is ibuprofen. It is one of the most popular medicines that can be bought without a prescription. It is also sold under brand names such as Nurofen, Calprofen and Ibuleve and is a type of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, also known as an NSAID.
It works by reducing hormones in the body that cause pain and swelling, and is used for a variety of aches and pains, including lower back pain, period pain, toothaches, colds, flu, and even treating COVID-19 symptoms.
But like any medication, you need to know how to take ibuprofen properly to avoid potential harmful side effects. Part of that includes being careful not to take ibuprofen with other medications, as they can cause bad reactions together.
The NHS warned that “ibuprofen does not interact with some medicines”.
For this reason, health organizations are urging people not to take ibuprofen at the same time as other NSAIDs, which include aspirin, diclofenac, celecoxib and naproxen, which can increase the risk of side effects such as stomach bleeding and kidney damage.
“NSAIDs are also used in medicines which can be bought from the pharmacy, such as cough and cold medicines,” the NHS advises. “Before taking any other medicines, check the label to see if they contain aspirin, ibuprofen or other NSAIDs.”
To be safe, before taking ibuprofen, tell your doctor if you are also taking any of the following medicines:
- Medicines that help prevent blood clots, such as warfarin
- High blood pressure medication
- Steroid medications such as betamethasone, dexamethasone, hydrocortisone, and prednisolone
- Antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, moxifloxacin, norfloxacin, and ofloxacin
- Antidepressants such as citalopram, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, venlafaxine, paroxetine, and sertraline
- Antidiabetic drugs such as gliclazide, glimepiride, glipizide, and tolbutamide.
Also, avoid taking ibuprofen with ginkgo supplements, as it can increase the chance of bleeding.
The NHS added that if you’re taking ibuprofen and experience any of the following symptoms, you should see a doctor or call 111 as soon as possible:
- If your child vomits black stool or blood, this could be a sign of stomach bleeding.
- Swollen ankles, blood in the urine, or a complete lack of urine can be signs of kidney problems.
