Many people do this out of habit, but experts want you to understand the potential risks involved.
Cleveland – almost everywhere has it drug cabinet. Millions pursue it without a second thought. But doctors say ibuprofen, while common and convenient, deserves a closer look before taking it.
What does ibuprofen actually do?
Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by blocking chemicals in the body that cause pain and inflammation, which is why it’s useful for a variety of conditions: headaches, muscle aches, menstrual cramps, fevers, arthritis, and body aches. “It’s a very common drug used for many of these things and more,” Dr. Jennifer Caudlesaid the family physician and associate professor at Rowan University.
It’s effective, widely available, and for many people, completely safe when used correctly. The key phrase is when used correctly — and for the right people.
Risks Most People Don’t Know About
“A lot of people are really unaware of some of the risks of ibuprofen,” Caudle said. Potential risks include:
- Cardiovascular effects: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2015 strengthened warnings about the increased risk of heart disease and stroke associated with ibuprofen and related NSAIDs. This risk increases with higher doses and longer use. Wikipedia
- blood pressure: Ibuprofen can increase or worsen blood pressure, which puts additional stress on the heart.
- Stomach and gastrointestinal problems: Ibuprofen can cause stomach upset, acid reflux, ulcers, gastrointestinal inflammation and, in some cases, bleeding.
- Kidney damage: Updated clinical guidelines highlight that patients with chronic kidney disease are particularly vulnerable to kidney damage from NSAIDs, including ibuprofen. NCBI
- Increased risk of bleeding: Ibuprofen can interfere with the body’s normal blood clotting process, which is especially important for people taking blood thinners.
None of this means that ibuprofen is dangerous for everyone. “I don’t want people to hear all this and be afraid to take ibuprofen. Remember, every drug, vitamin, supplement and plant has potential risks and benefits,” she said.
Who should be especially careful
“A lot of people’s doctors might say, hey, we don’t want you to take ibuprofen. Maybe if you’re taking certain blood thinners. Maybe if you have kidney disease or kidney damage. Maybe if you have other stomach, gastrointestinal or heart conditions. Remember, it’s different for everyone,” Caudle said.
Elderly patients are at greater risk than younger patients for serious cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and renal-related side effects from NSAIDs.
Ibuprofen also interferes with the cardioprotective effects of low-dose aspirin—an important consideration for people who take aspirin to protect their heart.
Good news: Some side effects are reversible
For many people, the side effects of ibuprofen improve or disappear once they stop taking the medication. But results depend on the individual, specific side effects, and any underlying medical conditions, which is why it’s important to talk to your doctor.
“It’s important to ask your doctor if ibuprofen is right for you and under what circumstances, and then the dosage and frequency,“ Caudle said. Before taking ibuprofen regularly (or even occasionally, if you have any of the above conditions), talk to your doctor to see if it’s right for you.
Every drug has a balance of risks and benefits. The goal is not to avoid ibuprofen entirely, but to use it wisely.
