Many of us rely on over-the-counter medicines to help relieve pain and other ailments. Headaches, backache, flu symptoms and other issues can all be treated with certain common medicines. However, as is the case with any medication, these do come with some potential side effects.
For this reason, the NHS has issued a warning over taking certain drugs together. More specifically, the health body explained that it may not be safe to take ibuprofen with other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). This can increase the likelihood of dangerous side effects, such as internal bleeding and even heart attacks.
“It's safe to take ibuprofen with paracetamol or codeine,” the NHS says. “But do not take ibuprofen with similar painkillers like aspirin or naproxen without talking to a pharmacist or doctor. “Ibuprofen, aspirin and naproxen belong to the same group of medicines called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
“If you take them together, it may increase the chance of you getting side effects like stomach ache.” It lists the potential side effects of ibuprofen and other NSAIDs as: Indigestion – including stomach aches, feeling sick and diarrhoea Stomach ulcers – these can cause internal bleeding and anaemia; extra medicine to protect your stomach may be prescribed to help reduce this risk Headaches Drowsiness Dizziness Allergic reactions In rare cases, problems with your liver, kidneys or heart and circulation, such as heart failure, heart attacks.