![\"Ibuprofen](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/0_ibuprofen.jpg\")
This natural supplement opens up a bigger risk of a major problem occurring if paired with ibuprofen(Image: Getty Images)<\/p>\nIbuprofen is a common painkiller in the UK but there is one thing you should never mix it with – and it’s not alcoholThis natural supplement opens up a bigger risk of a major problem occurring if paired with ibuprofen(Image: Getty Images)<\/p>\n
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<\/a>.<\/p>\n This natural supplement significantly increases the chances of serious complications when taken alongside ibuprofen.<\/p>\n Ibuprofen can be readily bought from most UK supermarkets <\/a>and chemists without difficulty, though more potent versions require a GP’s prescription.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n Generally, individuals consume three to four doses daily maximum, whether as tablets, capsules, or granules dissolved in water or liquid, reports the Mirror<\/a>.<\/p>\n How long ibuprofen remains active in your body varies according to the dosage strength, with packaging consistently providing detailed guidance.<\/p>\n 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.”<\/p>\n For temporary discomfort such as dental pain or period cramps<\/a>, you might only require the medication for one or two days.<\/p>\n Those with chronic health conditions may need to use ibuprofen for extended periods.<\/p>\n Can I mix ibuprofen with other medications and supplements? 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.<\/p>\n Ibuprofen, aspirin and naproxen all belong to the same family <\/a>of medicines known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).<\/p>\n Taking them simultaneously may heighten your risk of experiencing adverse effects such as stomach discomfort.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n One particular warning was issued that could be significant for those using specific supplements.<\/p>\n The website states: “It’s best not to take gingko biloba with ibuprofen <\/a>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.”<\/p>\n Adverse reactions from using ibuprofen 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.<\/p>\n The NHS states people might observe:<\/p>\n HeadachesFeeling dizzyFeeling sick (nausea) or vomitingWindIndigestion<\/p>\n There are some more severe, though uncommon, adverse reactions to using ibuprofen:<\/p>\n black poo or blood in your vomit \u2013 these can be signs of bleeding in your stomachswollen ankles, blood in your pee or not peeing at all \u2013 these can be signs of a kidney problemyou have severe chest or stomach pain \u2013 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 \u2013 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) Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today.<\/p>\n You’ll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland.<\/p>\n No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team.<\/p>\n All you have to do is click here if you’re on mobile<\/a>, select ‘Join Community’ and you’re in!<\/p>\n If you’re on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click ‘Join Community’.<\/p>\n We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don\u2019t like our community, you can check out any time you like.<\/p>\n To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose ‘exit group’.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.<\/a><\/p>\n![\"Person](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/0_person-holding-tablets-up-to-light.jpg\")
People who take a common painkiller should be aware that there is one thing you should never have alongside i(Image: Getty Images)<\/p>\n![\"Packets](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/0_nurofen.jpg\")
Ibuprofen can be easily purchased at most supermarkets and pharmacies in the UK without too many issues(Image: Simon Dawson\/Bloomberg via Getty Images)<\/p>\n![\"Ibuprofen](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/0_brufen-tablets.jpg\")
Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and lower fever(Image: Hindustan Times \/ Getty)<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/1756988109_491_0_WACOMMUNITYQR3.jpg\")
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