The NHS has issued a crucial advisory regarding the simultaneous use of naproxen, aspirin, and a widely utilized medication, cautioning that this combination could lead to unpleasant side effects. For countless individuals dealing with routine aches and ailments, over-the-counter painkillers provide significant relief.

People often turn to standard pain relief options for common issues such as headaches, backaches, and cold symptoms. Among these options, ibuprofen stands out as one of the UK’s most popular choices, available without a prescription. Known by brand names like Nurofen, Calprofen, and Ibuleve, ibuprofen belongs to the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs category, commonly referred to as NSAIDs.

This drug is effective in reducing inflammation and pain by blocking hormones responsible for these conditions. It is commonly used to treat a range of issues, including back pain, menstrual cramps, toothaches, and symptoms related to colds, flu, or even COVID-19.

Nevertheless, the importance of using ibuprofen correctly cannot be overstated, as improper use can lead to harmful side effects. A critical part of using ibuprofen safely involves being aware of potential negative interactions with other medications.

The NHS has emphasized the importance of caution, stating, “Ibuprofen does not mix well with some medicines.” This highlights the need for awareness and care in medication usage to ensure safety and efficacy.

The NHS issued a warning: “Ibuprofen does not mix well with some medicines.”

As a result, the health body has recommended individuals avoid taking ibuprofen at the same time as other NSAIDs.

This group encompasses aspirin and naproxen, which when combined with ibuprofen, may increase the risk of complications including stomach bleeding or kidney problems. “Common” side effects of ibuprofen include:

• Indigestion and stomach discomfort
• Nausea and vomiting
• Headaches
• Skin rashes
• Dizziness
• Diarrhoea or constipation

Meanwhile, more serious but rarer side effects can involve:

• Stomach ulcers or internal stomach bleeding – displaying symptoms such as abdominal pain, breathlessness, pallor, vomiting blood or passing black, sticky, tar-like stools
• An allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) – showing symptoms like a swollen throat or tongue, a raised, itchy rash or difficulty breathing
• Kidney problems – indicating symptoms such as shortness of breath, blood in urine or swelling in your ankles, feet or hands

The NHS has cautioned: “The risk of serious side effects is higher if you’re taking a high dose of ibuprofen or taking it for a long time.”

It’s equally important to remain vigilant about medicines that may not immediately appear to be NSAIDs. “NSAIDs are also used in medicines you can buy from pharmacies, such as cough and cold remedies,” the NHS noted.

“Before taking any other medicines, check the label to see if they contain aspirin, ibuprofen or other NSAIDs.”

For your own wellbeing, it’s advised to notify your GP if you’re taking any of the following medications prior to starting any type of ibuprofen:

• Drugs that prevent blood clotting, such as warfarin
• Medicines for high blood pressure
• Steroid medications including betamethasone, dexamethasone, hydrocortisone or prednisolone
• Antibiotic drugs such as ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, moxifloxacin, norfloxacin or ofloxacin
• Antidepressants including citalopram, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, venlafaxine, paroxetine or sertraline
• Diabetes medicines such as gliclazide, glimepiride, glipizide or tolbutamide
• Furthermore, mixing ibuprofen with gingko biloba supplements ought to be avoided as it can “increase the chance of bleeding”. The NHS recommends seeking urgent medical help or calling 111 if you’ve been taking ibuprofen and experience:
• Black stools or blood in your vomit – potential signs of stomach bleeding
• Swollen ankles, blood in your urine or not passing urine at all – possible indicators of kidney problems

Other NSAIDs include diclofenac, celecoxib, mefenamic acid, etoricoxib, and indomethacin.