Drugs

[Ibuprofen] Who Should Avoid It? Dangerous Drug Interactions

Author Bowtie Team

Updated on 2025-12-04

Disclaimer: This article is translated with the assistance of AI.

Ibuprofen, a common non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, is widely used for fever reduction and pain relief. Bowtie’s expert medical team breaks down its benefits, side effects, and the right way to take it in this comprehensive guide.

What is Ibuprofen?

Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) ¹ that effectively blocks the body’s production of substances causing inflammation ² . It offers fever relief , anti-inflammatory , and pain-relieving effects. It’s commonly used to ease pain from various conditions like headaches , toothaches, menstrual cramps ¹ , muscle pain, or arthritis ^2,3 . Additionally, it can reduce fever and alleviate mild pain or discomfort caused by colds or flu ³ .

How to Know If You Should Take Ibuprofen?

If you experience the above symptoms, consult a doctor. Only take Ibuprofen if prescribed by a medical professional, and avoid self-medicating without guidance.

Types of Ibuprofen

Different forms of Ibuprofen are used for varying levels of pain, including:

Oral	Liquid suspension Tablets Capsules Slow-release capsules Chewable tablets ²
Intravenous	Injectable solution ²
Topical	Cream or gel ⁵

Who Should or Shouldn’t Take Ibuprofen?

Both adults and children can safely take ibuprofen at the dosage prescribed by a doctor. However, certain individuals should avoid this medication. Details are as follows:

Who Can Take Ibuprofen?

Adults ⁵
Children aged 3 months or older and weighing over 5 kilograms ³
Infants aged 1 to 3 months, subject to a doctor’s individual assessment ⁵

Who Should Avoid Ibuprofen?

Adults or children with a history of allergy to ibuprofen, aspirin, or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) ²
Children with a history of asthma ⁵
Children with heart, kidney, liver, or stomach conditions ⁵
Children showing signs of dehydration ⁵
Children with inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn’s disease ³
Pregnant or breastfeeding women ³
Individuals with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or high blood sugar ⁵
Individuals with a history of heart attack, cardiovascular disease, or family history of heart disease ⁴
Individuals with a family history of stroke ⁴
Individuals preparing for or recently having undergone heart bypass surgery ⁴
Individuals with stomach ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding ³
Individuals with abnormal liver or kidney function, or liver/kidney disease ⁵
Children or adults with blood clotting disorders ⁵

How to Take Ibuprofen? Any Contraindications?

A doctor will thoroughly assess a patient’s condition, weight, and medical history to prescribe the most suitable form of ibuprofen—be it oral tablets, topical creams, or intravenous injections—and the appropriate dosage. Patients should follow the doctor’s instructions and take the medication on time.

Ibuprofen should not be taken with certain medications due to potential interactions. Contraindications include:

Serotonin , also known as Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)—may cause pain or bleeding
Blood pressure medications—may affect kidney function
Aspirin
Diuretics—may affect kidney function
Lithium—risk of toxicity
Methotrexate—risk of toxicity
Blood thinners or anticoagulants—increases risk of stomach bleeding ²

Does Taking Ibuprofen Have Side Effects?

When prescribed by a doctor and taken as directed in the correct dosage, ibuprofen generally does not cause severe side effects. Common side effects include ² :

Headache
Dizziness
Nausea
Vomiting
Indigestion
Stomach discomfort
Diarrhea

If side effects become severe, it’s advisable to seek medical attention promptly.

Will Long-Term Use of Ibuprofen Lead to Drug Resistance?

There is no research indicating that long-term use of ibuprofen leads to drug resistance. However, prolonged use may increase the risk of stomach ulcers or affect kidney function ⁵ .

How Should Ibuprofen Be Stored Properly?

Ibuprofen should be kept in its original container with the lid securely closed. Store it at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
For safety, all medications should be stored out of reach of children and pets.
Do not flush expired or unneeded ibuprofen down the toilet or pour it into a drain. If the medication is expired or no longer needed, ensure proper disposal by consulting a pharmacist or relevant professional ⁴

Frequently Asked Questions About Ibuprofen

Can Ibuprofen Be Addictive?

If ibuprofen is prescribed by a doctor, the dosage will be tailored to the patient’s specific condition, such as their health status or body weight. Therefore, it is unlikely to cause addiction ⁵ .

Can Ibuprofen Treat COVID-19 Symptoms?

There is currently no research showing that ibuprofen worsens COVID-19. However, it is generally recommended that COVID-19 patients use paracetamol to relieve discomfort ⁶ .

What’s the Difference Between Paracetamol and Ibuprofen?

Paracetamol and ibuprofen are common medications that both relieve pain and reduce fever, helping to ease flu-like symptoms.

However, ibuprofen belongs to the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) category. It is not suitable for everyone and may cause side effects, especially for individuals with asthma, heart disease, or circulatory issues ⁵ .

What Happens If You Overdose on Ibuprofen?

Overdosing on ibuprofen can lead to mild or severe side effects, including:

Mild Side Effects
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Heartburn
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Skin rash
Severe Side Effects
- Difficulty breathing
- Seizures
- Low blood pressure
- Reduced urine output or inability to urinate
- Severe headache
- Coma ⁷

Sources

Author

Bowtie Team

The Bowtie Life Insurance Company Limited is an authorized life insurance company and Hong Kong’s very first virtual insurer approved. Through the use of modern technology and medical expertise, Bowtie offers an agent-free, commission-free and more convenient online platform for customers to quote, apply and claim for Voluntary Health Insurance Scheme (VHIS) anytime anywhere. Bowtie is ranked first in the direct channel sales throughout 2021. Stay up to date at www.bowtie.com.hk