Ibuprofen: Uses, Side Effects and Who Should Avoid It

6 min read · Medicines · By the Asthra Health Care team

What ibuprofen is used for

Ibuprofen belongs to a group of medicines called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs. It eases pain, brings down fever and reduces swelling. Doctors commonly suggest it for toothache, headache, period pain, back pain, sprains, muscle strains and joint pain. It is also used for fever in children when paracetamol alone is not enough, on a doctor's advice.

Because it reduces inflammation, ibuprofen can work better than paracetamol for pain that comes with swelling, such as a twisted ankle or a swollen gum. It does not cure the underlying problem, so a dental infection or an injured joint may still need proper treatment.

• Toothache, headache and period pain
• Sprains, back pain and muscle strains
• Mild arthritis pain and stiffness
• Fever, when a doctor advises it

How ibuprofen works

When tissues are injured or infected, the body makes chemicals called prostaglandins. These cause pain, swelling and fever. Ibuprofen blocks the enzymes that make prostaglandins, so pain and swelling settle and fever comes down. Its effect usually begins within an hour and wears off after several hours, which is why the label spells out a minimum gap between doses.

The same prostaglandins also protect the stomach lining, help keep blood flowing to the kidneys and support normal blood clotting. This explains why ibuprofen can cause acidity, stomach ulcers, kidney strain and a slightly higher bleeding risk, especially with long or heavy use.

Ibuprofen side effects: common and serious

Common side effects include acidity, heartburn, nausea, stomach discomfort and mild indigestion. Taking it after food and with water can reduce stomach upset. Some people notice mild swelling of the feet, a slight rise in blood pressure, dizziness or headache. These usually settle when the medicine is stopped.

Serious but less common effects include stomach bleeding, which may show as black tarry stools or vomiting blood, reduced kidney function, worsening of heart failure and, rarely, severe allergic reactions. Some people with asthma find ibuprofen triggers wheezing. Long-term regular use slightly raises the risk of heart attack and stroke, so it should not be used for long periods without a doctor's supervision.

Who should avoid ibuprofen or take extra care

Avoid ibuprofen if dengue fever is suspected, as it can worsen bleeding. People with a past or current stomach ulcer, kidney disease, liver disease, heart failure, uncontrolled high blood pressure or aspirin-sensitive asthma should not use it unless a doctor advises. Elderly people are more likely to get stomach bleeding and kidney problems, so they need extra care.

In pregnancy, ibuprofen is generally avoided, especially in the later months, because it can affect the baby's heart and kidneys. Short use while breastfeeding is usually considered acceptable, but check with your doctor first. For children, follow the label or your pharmacist's advice and never give it to a child who is dehydrated from vomiting or diarrhoea.

Ibuprofen interactions to know

Do not combine ibuprofen with other NSAIDs such as diclofenac, naproxen or aceclofenac, as this raises side effects without adding much benefit. Taken with blood thinners, low-dose aspirin, or steroid tablets, it increases the chance of stomach bleeding. It can also weaken the effect of some blood pressure medicines.

In people taking BP medicines like telmisartan or other ARBs, ACE inhibitors or water tablets, ibuprofen can harm the kidneys, particularly in hot weather or during dehydration. It may also raise lithium and methotrexate levels. Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about every medicine you take before using ibuprofen.

Practical tips for safe use

Follow the label or your pharmacist's advice for how much and how often, and use it for the shortest time that controls your symptoms. Take it after food with a full glass of water. Drink enough fluids, particularly in summer or when you have fever, to protect your kidneys.

Check combination products, as some pain and cold medicines already contain ibuprofen. For long-lasting pain such as knee arthritis or back pain, ask your doctor about safer long-term options, including exercise, physiotherapy or a gel applied to the skin instead of tablets.

When to talk to your doctor about ibuprofen

See a doctor if pain lasts more than a few days, fever continues beyond two to three days, or you need ibuprofen repeatedly. Stop it and seek urgent help if you notice black stools, vomiting blood, breathlessness or swelling of the face. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting ibuprofen if you have any long-term illness.

This article is general health information, not medical advice. Do not start, stop or combine medicines on your own — always follow your doctor's prescription and ask your pharmacist if unsure.