The NHS has issued a warning about the potential dangers of taking certain painkillers together. Specifically, the health body has highlighted the risks of combining ibuprofen with other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Doing so could increase the chances of experiencing harmful side effects such as internal bleeding and heart attacks.
While it is generally safe to take ibuprofen with paracetamol or codeine, the NHS advises against mixing ibuprofen with similar painkillers like aspirin or naproxen without consulting a pharmacist or doctor first. These medications, including ibuprofen, aspirin, and naproxen, belong to the NSAID group, and combining them may heighten the risk of experiencing side effects like stomach ache.
Potential side effects of ibuprofen and other NSAIDs include indigestion, stomach ulcers leading to internal bleeding and anaemia, headaches, drowsiness, dizziness, allergic reactions, and in rare cases, issues with the liver, kidneys, and heart like heart failure, heart attacks, and strokes. The NHS recommends reporting any bothersome side effects to your doctor and discontinuing the medicine.
A report published in the Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine highlighted that NSAIDs are a common cause of hospital admissions due to gastrointestinal bleeding. The text revealed that the use of NSAIDs contributes significantly to cases of gastrointestinal bleeding, with the risk, though low for individual patients, resulting in NSAID-induced GI toxicity being the 15th leading cause of death in the United States.
Symptoms of gastrointestinal bleeding to watch for include vomiting blood, black or tarry stool, rectal bleeding, lightheadedness, difficulty breathing, fainting, chest pain, and abdominal pain. If you notice signs like black poo or blood in your vomit or symptoms indicating kidney problems such as swollen ankles, blood in urine, or decreased urination, the NHS advises stopping ibuprofen and seeking medical advice urgently.
It’s crucial to be cautious when taking over-the-counter medications to manage pain and always consult healthcare professionals if in doubt about potential risks. Symptoms of adverse reactions should not be ignored, and seeking medical help promptly is essential to safeguard one’s health when using NSAIDs for pain relief.