Top 5 Problems with taking Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen is an anti-inflammatory drug that is very widely used in the UK. Specifically, it is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory, meaning it does not contain any steroid.

Does ibuprofen work? Yes, in my opinion, it does. The last time I took ibuprofen was about 12 years ago for severe tooth pain following a routine dental treatment. The ibuprofen took the majority of the pain away, until the drug’s effects wore out, and then another helped to continue the pain reduction. It definitely works. In the UK, you might also know ibuprofen as Nurofen. In the US, you might know it as Advil.

We see many patients take anti-inflammatories, and many are prescribed them by the GP. However, in fairness to the manufacturers, they do state that ibuprofen should be taken for short-term. The problem is, patients end up taking them for longer than they should. Why is that? Usually because inflammation becomes chronic, so patients need repeated weeks of drugs.

Problems with taking Ibuprofen

1) Tummy issues

Ibuprofen can cause stomach ulcers, gastritis, and over long-term use, bleeding in the stomach or intestines. This is due to its effect on the stomach lining and inhibition of prostaglandins, which protect the stomach lining. Prostaglandins produce the globular like substance that lines the stomach, so when this goes, the stomach lining is sensitive to acid in the stomach.

This is a serious issue. My great aunt actually ended up nearly dying with peritonitis after two years of ibuprofen use, and ended up with peritonitis.

Tip: Always take ibuprofen with or after food. Or, look for other alternatives to pain relief such as steroid injections, physiotherapy, osteopathy, ice packs, and rehab exercises.

2) Kidney issues

Chronic use of ibuprofen can lead to kidney damage or exacerbate pre-existing kidney conditions. It can reduce blood flow to the kidneys, impairing their function. The issue again, as above, is the inhibition of prostaglandins. The prostaglandins help dilate the blood vessels in the kidneys, but with ibuprofen, the blood vessels constrict, reducing function. This is bad news for the kidneys.

Tip: seek osteopathy or physio for hands-on treatment to help you feel better.

3) Liver issues

Luckily liver issues are not too common, but like most drugs, the liver will try to detoxify and break down the drug. High doses or prolonged use of ibuprofen can cause liver damage, particularly in individuals with pre-existing liver conditions or those who consume alcohol regularly. Ibuprofen may also cause inflammation in the liver too.

4) Cardiovascular issues

Apparently, regular use might increase the risk of heart attacks and stroke, according to the Alcohol and Drug Foundation. This is worse in individuals with pre-existing heart conditions. This is one reason why doctors do not like patients taking ibuprofen if they are elderly.

5) Allergic reaction

According to the NHS, in rare cases, it’s possible to have an allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to ibuprofen. I’ve never personally witnessed this, or seen a patient who had this. Signs to look for are typical for severe allergic reaction and include swelling in the lips, mouth, throat or tongue. Breathing could become fast, or you get very wheezy or struggle to breathe. Your throat might become tight, and your lips and tongue could turn blue. This is a medical emergency and requires an ambulance.

The Solution

We’re not against taking ibuprofen short-term, but we are against it long-term. Chronic use is very problematic and should be avoided. There are many pain-relieving alternatives like physiotherapy, osteopathy, acupuncture, injections and exercises. There are also anti-inflammatory alternatives like ice, passive mobilisation, and exercises.

If you are a patient and struggling on ibuprofen and cannot break free of chronic pain, please call us to discuss your case further. Surrey Physio have an amazing team of therapists that can help you rehab to get back on your feet exercising or walking better once the pain reduces. Call us on 0208 685 6930 or click the link at the top to book online.