Ibuprofen is a common painkiller in the UK but there is one thing you should never mix it with – and it’s not alcohol
This natural supplement opens up a bigger risk of a major problem occurring if paired with ibuprofen(Image: Getty Images)
Individuals who use a widely available painkiller need to know there’s one substance they must never combine with it – and surprisingly, it’s not alcohol.
This natural supplement significantly increases the chances of serious complications when taken alongside ibuprofen.
Ibuprofen can be readily bought from most UK supermarkets and chemists without difficulty, though more potent versions require a GP’s prescription.
The medication functions by reducing hormones responsible for aches and discomfort, providing relief for those battling various conditions including back pain, menstrual cramps, dental pain, and cold, flu or coronavirus symptoms, the NHS confirms.
Generally, individuals consume three to four doses daily maximum, whether as tablets, capsules, or granules dissolved in water or liquid, reports the Mirror.
People who take a common painkiller should be aware that there is one thing you should never have alongside i(Image: Getty Images)
How long ibuprofen remains active in your body varies according to the dosage strength, with packaging consistently providing detailed guidance.
The NHS advises: “Take ibuprofen tablets, capsules, granules or liquid with a meal or snack, or with a drink of milk. It will be less likely to upset your stomach. If you take it just after food, ibuprofen may take longer to start working.”
For temporary discomfort such as dental pain or period cramps, you might only require the medication for one or two days.
Those with chronic health conditions may need to use ibuprofen for extended periods.
Can I mix ibuprofen with other medications and supplements?
Ibuprofen can be easily purchased at most supermarkets and pharmacies in the UK without too many issues(Image: Simon Dawson/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
It’s perfectly safe to combine ibuprofen with paracetamol or codeine – however, avoid mixing ibuprofen with similar pain relief medications such as aspirin or naproxen without consulting a pharmacist or GP first.
Ibuprofen, aspirin and naproxen all belong to the same family of medicines known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Taking them simultaneously may heighten your risk of experiencing adverse effects such as stomach discomfort.
The NHS has confirmed that individuals can maintain their normal eating and drinking habits whilst using any form of ibuprofen, though they caution that excessive alcohol consumption could aggravate your stomach.
One particular warning was issued that could be significant for those using specific supplements.
The website states: “It’s best not to take gingko biloba with ibuprofen as it can increase the chance of bleeding. There’s not enough information to say that other herbal remedies and supplements are safe to take with ibuprofen. They’re not tested in the same way as pharmacy and prescription medicines.”
Adverse reactions from using ibuprofen
Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and lower fever(Image: Hindustan Times / Getty)
There are several common adverse reactions that can result from using the pain relief medication, with approximately one in 100 individuals experiencing some of these symptoms.
The NHS states people might observe:
HeadachesFeeling dizzyFeeling sick (nausea) or vomitingWindIndigestion
There are some more severe, though uncommon, adverse reactions to using ibuprofen:
black poo or blood in your vomit – these can be signs of bleeding in your stomachswollen ankles, blood in your pee or not peeing at all – these can be signs of a kidney problemyou have severe chest or stomach pain – these can be signs of a hole in your stomach or gutyou have difficulty breathing, or asthma symptoms that become worseyou get a severe headache, a high temperature or stiff neck, and a dislike of bright lights – these can be signs or inflammation of the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord (meninges)you have blurred vision or you see or hear things that are not real (hallucinations)
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Should you notice either of these symptoms, contact a doctor or ring 111 immediately and discontinue taking ibuprofen: In uncommon instances, a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to ibuprofen is possible.
Any suspected side effects can be reported using the Yellow Card safety scheme.