Is Ibuprofen 600mg Strong? Exploring the Common Side Effects
What are the potential side effects of taking ibuprofen 600mg? Can I take ibuprofen 600mg with CBD oil? What should I do if I experience unexpected side effects?.
Potential Side Effects of Ibuprofen 600mg
Ibuprofen 600mg is a commonly used over-the-counter medication for pain relief. While it is generally safe to use, it can have some side effects that may be uncomfortable or concerning. The most common side effects of taking ibuprofen 600mg include gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, stomach pain, heartburn, and diarrhea. Other potential side effects include increased risk of bleeding, kidney damage, headache, dizziness, and rash. Severe side effects can include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, throat and tongue, chest pain, and changes in vision.
Taking Ibuprofen 600mg with CBD Oil
It is generally recommended to avoid taking ibuprofen 600mg if you are already taking CBD oil, as this combination can increase the risk of side effects such as stomach upset, dizziness, and drowsiness. It is important to consult your doctor before taking any new medications, as they can interact with each other and cause adverse effects.

What to Do if You Experience Unexpected Side Effects
If you experience any unexpected side effects from taking ibuprofen 600mg, you should stop taking the medication immediately and consult your doctor. Make sure to report all side effects to your doctor, even if they are mild and not serious. Your doctor will be able to advise you on the best course of action for your particular situation.
Long-Term Risks of Ibuprofen 600mg
Yes, there are long-term risks associated with taking ibuprofen 600mg. These include an increased risk of stomach ulcers and bleeding, kidney problems, and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Taking ibuprofen also increases the risk of low blood pressure and heart failure. It is important to talk to your doctor before taking ibuprofen 600mg or any other medication.
Natural Alternatives to Ibuprofen 600mg
Yes, there are natural alternatives to ibuprofen 600mg that may be less likely to cause side effects. These include turmeric, ginger, white willow bark, and capsaicin. All of these have anti-inflammatory properties, but are gentler on the stomach than ibuprofen. However, it is important to consult a doctor before taking any of these natural alternatives, as they may interact with other medications.

How Long Does Ibuprofen 600mg Stay in Your System?
Ibuprofen 600mg can stay in your system for up to 24 hours. However, it is recommended to take ibuprofen no more than every four to six hours, and not to exceed more than four doses in 24 hours. Some of the side effects of taking ibuprofen 600mg can include dizziness, headache, drowsiness, nausea, and vomiting.
Maximum Safe Dose of Ibuprofen
The maximum dose of ibuprofen for adults is 800 milligrams per dose or 3200 mg per day (4 maximum doses). Taking more than the recommended dose of ibuprofen can lead to an increased risk of kidney damage. Therefore, it is best to stay within the recommended dose to help avoid any potential kidney damage.
Why is Ibuprofen 600mg Prescribed?
Ibuprofen 600mg is typically prescribed to treat pain, inflammation, and fever. It is also used to reduce the severity of menstrual cramps, rheumatic pain, and headaches. Common side effects of ibuprofen 600mg include nausea, stomach pain, and heartburn.
Is Ibuprofen 600mg High Risk?
Ibuprofen 600mg is generally considered to be a safe and effective medication, however, there are potential side effects that can occur. Some of the more common side effects include nausea, dizziness, abdominal pain, and headaches. Rare side effects can include allergic reactions, liver damage, and gastrointestinal bleeding. Therefore, while ibuprofen 600mg is not considered to be high risk, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects that can occur.

Is Ibuprofen 600mg a Painkiller?
Yes, ibuprofen 600mg is a painkiller, but it can also have side effects. Common side effects include upset stomach, nausea, heartburn, headaches, dizziness, and rashes. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor right away.
How Long Does Ibuprofen 600mg Last?
Ibuprofen 600mg typically lasts for up to four to six hours. However, it can last for up to eight hours for some individuals. It is important to follow the recommended dosage instructions and not exceed the maximum daily dose to avoid potential side effects.
Common Side Effects of Ibuprofen 600mg
Ibuprofen 600mg is a commonly used over the counter medication for pain relief. While it is generally safe to use, it can have some side effects that may be uncomfortable or concerning. In this article, we will discuss the common side effects of ibuprofen 600mg and provide tips on how to manage them. We will also explain when to seek medical attention if the side effects become severe.
What are the potential side effects of taking ibuprofen 600?
The most common side effects of taking ibuprofen 600 are gastrointestinal disturbances, such as nausea, stomach pain, heartburn, and diarrhea. Other potential side effects include increased risk of bleeding, kidney damage, headache, dizziness, and rash. Severe side effects can include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, throat and tongue, chest pain, and changes in vision.
Is it safe to take ibuprofen 600 if I’m already taking CBD oil?
It is generally recommended to avoid taking ibuprofen 600 if you are already taking CBD oil, as this combination can increase the risk of side effects such as stomach upset, dizziness, and drowsiness.
It is important to consult your doctor before taking any new medications.
What should I do if I experience any unexpected side effects from taking ibuprofen 600?
If you experience any unexpected side effects from taking ibuprofen 600, you should stop taking the medication immediately and consult your doctor. Make sure to report all side effects to your doctor, even if they are mild and not serious. Your doctor will be able to advise you on the best course of action for your particular situation.
Are there any long-term risks associated with taking ibuprofen 600?
Yes, there are long-term risks associated with taking ibuprofen 600. These include an increased risk of stomach ulcers and bleeding, kidney problems, and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Taking ibuprofen also increases the risk of low blood pressure and heart failure. It is important to talk to your doctor before taking ibuprofen 600 or any other medication.
Are there any natural alternatives to ibuprofen 600 that may be less likely to cause side effects?
Yes, there are natural alternatives to ibuprofen 600 that may be less likely to cause side effects.
These include turmeric, ginger, white willow bark, and capsaicin. All of these have anti-inflammatory properties, but are gentler on the stomach than ibuprofen. However, it is important to consult a doctor before taking any of these natural alternatives, as they may interact with other medications.
How long does ibuprofen stay in your system?
Ibuprofen 600 can stay in your system for up to 24 hours. However, it is recommended to take ibuprofen no more than every four to six hours, and not to exceed more than four doses in 24 hours. Some of the side effects of taking ibuprofen 600 can include dizziness, headache, drowsiness, nausea, and vomiting.
How much ibuprofen can I take without hurting kidneys?
Ibuprofen is generally safe for short-term use at recommended doses. The maximum dose of ibuprofen for adults is 800 milligrams per dose or 3200 mg per day (4 maximum doses). Taking more than the recommended dose of ibuprofen can lead to an increased risk of kidney damage.
Therefore, it is best to stay within the recommended dose to help avoid any potential kidney damage.
How long does 600 mg ibuprofen stay in your system?
Ibuprofen 600 mg typically stays in your system for up to four hours. However, if you take ibuprofen frequently or in high doses, it can remain in your system for up to 24 hours. Common side effects of ibuprofen 600 mg include nausea, heartburn, and stomach pain.
Why is ibuprofen 600 prescribed?
Ibuprofen 600 is typically prescribed to treat pain, inflammation, and fever. It is also used to reduce the severity of menstrual cramps, rheumatic pain, and headaches. Common side effects of ibuprofen 600 include nausea, stomach pain, and heartburn.
Is ibuprofen high risk?
Ibuprofen 600 mg is generally considered to be a safe and effective medication, however, there are potential side effects that can occur. Some of the more common side effects include nausea, dizziness, abdominal pain, and headaches. Rare side effects can include allergic reactions, liver damage, and gastrointestinal bleeding.
Therefore, while ibuprofen 600 mg is not considered to be high risk, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects that can occur.
Is ibuprofen 600 mg a painkiller?
Yes, ibuprofen 600 mg is a painkiller, but it can also have side effects. Common side effects include upset stomach, nausea, heartburn, headaches, dizziness, and rashes. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor right away.
How many hours does ibuprofen 600 last?
Ibuprofen 600 typically lasts for up to four to six hours. However, it can last for up to eight hours for some people. It is important to follow the instructions on the label to ensure that you do not take too much. Side effects can include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and headaches.
Should I take ibuprofen 800 or 600 mg?
It is important to note that ibuprofen 600 mg can cause side effects such as stomach pain, nausea, heartburn, headache, dizziness, and drowsiness. If you experience any of these side effects, it is best to consult with your doctor before taking ibuprofen 800 mg.
Can ibuprofen affect urine flow?
Yes, ibuprofen can affect urine flow. Ibuprofen 600mg is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can cause side effects in some people. These can include increased frequency of urination, difficulty in urinating, and increased risk of urinary tract infections.
Does ibuprofen 600 make you sleepy?
No, ibuprofen 600 does not usually make you sleepy. Common side effects of ibuprofen 600 may include nausea, stomach pain, heartburn, constipation, gas, dizziness, headache, and drowsiness. However, drowsiness is not a common side effect of ibuprofen 600 and is not likely to make you sleepy.
Can ibuprofen affect blood pressure?
Yes, ibuprofen can affect blood pressure. Ibuprofen 600 is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and can cause an increase in blood pressure. Other side effects of ibuprofen 600 may include upset stomach, stomach pain, indigestion, nausea, and diarrhea.
Does ibuprofen make you tired or sleepy?
Ibuprofen 600 is generally considered to be safe for most people, however it can cause some side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, and fatigue.
It is possible that taking ibuprofen 600 can make you sleepy or tired, however this is not a common side effect. If you experience any of these side effects while taking ibuprofen 600, you should speak to your doctor.
Can I take 2 ibuprofen 600 mg?
Yes, you can take two ibuprofen 600 mg, but you should always consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking any medication. Ibuprofen 600 mg can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, blurred vision, headache, rash, drowsiness, and dizziness. Taking more than the recommended dose may cause more severe side effects, so it is important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.
Can I take ibuprofen every day for arthritis?
Ibuprofen 600 mg is a strong dose and can cause side effects such as stomach upset, nausea, dizziness, and headaches. It is important to consult with your doctor before taking ibuprofen 600 mg every day for arthritis, as they may recommend a lower dose. Additionally, long-term use of ibuprofen 600 mg can increase your risk of developing serious health problems, such as high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, and kidney damage.
How often can I take 600 mg of ibuprofen?
It is generally recommended that you not take more than 600 mg of ibuprofen in a single dose, or more than 1200 mg in a 24-hour period. Taking too much ibuprofen can cause side effects such as stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and headache. If you experience any of these side effects, it is important to contact your doctor right away.
Can I take 2 ibuprofen 600 mg at once?
It is not recommended to take two ibuprofen 600mg at once as it could increase your risk of serious side effects such as stomach bleeding and ulcers. Instead, it is recommended to take ibuprofen 600mg at the lowest effective dose for the shortest amount of time necessary to relieve symptoms. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
Can you drive after taking 600 mg ibuprofen?
It is not advisable to drive after taking 600 mg of ibuprofen, as it can cause side effects, such as dizziness and drowsiness. These side effects can impair your ability to drive safely.
Additionally, ibuprofen can interfere with your attention and reaction time, potentially putting yourself and others in danger. Therefore, it is best to wait at least 24 hours after taking ibuprofen before driving.
What organs can ibuprofen affect?
Ibuprofen 600 side effects can affect a range of organs, including the stomach, intestines, heart, and kidneys. Gastrointestinal problems such as nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain can occur, as well as heartburn and indigestion. Ibuprofen can also cause an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Additionally, the drug can affect the kidney, causing swelling, high blood pressure, and increased risk of kidney failure.
How long does it take for ibuprofen 600 to kick in?
Ibuprofen 600 usually starts to work within 30 minutes to provide pain relief. However, it may take up to 1 hour to reach peak effectiveness. It is important to take ibuprofen 600 exactly as directed by a healthcare professional to ensure the best results.
Is ibuprofen 600 too much?
It is not recommended to take more than 600mg of ibuprofen at once, or more than 3200mg per day. Taking too much ibuprofen can cause stomach irritation, nausea, vomiting, and even heartburn. It can also increase the risk of stomach ulcers, kidney and liver damage, and even stroke. Therefore, it is best to consult with a doctor before taking ibuprofen 600, or any other amount.
How and when to take or use ibuprofen
Dosage and strength for tablets, capsules, granules and liquid
Each ibuprofen tablet or capsule contains 200mg, 400mg or 600mg of ibuprofen. Slow-release tablets and capsules contain 200mg, 300mg or 800mg of ibuprofen.
Each sachet of granules contains 600mg of ibuprofen.
If you’re taking ibuprofen as a liquid, 10ml contains either 200mg or 400mg. Always check the label.
The usual dose for adults is one or two 200mg tablets or capsules 3 times a day.
In some cases, your doctor may prescribe a higher dose of up to 600mg to take 4 times a day if needed. This should only happen under supervision of a doctor.
If you’re taking granules, the usual dose for adults is one sachet 2 or 3 times a day. Some people might need to take it 4 times a day.
If you take ibuprofen 3 times a day, leave at least 6 hours between doses. If you take it 4 times a day, leave at least 4 hours between doses.
If you have pain all the time, your doctor may recommend slow-release ibuprofen tablets or capsules. You’ll usually take these once a day in the evening or twice a day. Leave a gap of 10 to 12 hours between doses if you’re taking ibuprofen twice a day.
How to take tablets, capsules, granules and liquid
Swallow ibuprofen tablets or capsules whole with a drink of water, milk or juice. Do not chew, break, crush or suck them as this could irritate your mouth or throat.
For people who find it difficult to swallow tablets or capsules, ibuprofen is available as a tablet that melts in your mouth, granules that you mix with a glass of water to make a drink, and as a liquid.
If you’re taking the tablet that melts in your mouth, put it on your tongue, let it dissolve and then swallow. You do not need to drink any water.
Take ibuprofen granules by emptying the contents of the sachet into a glass full of water to make an orange flavoured fizzy drink, stir and drink straight away.
If you’re taking liquid, it will come with a plastic syringe or spoon to measure your dose. If you do not have a syringe or spoon, ask your pharmacist for one. Do not use a kitchen spoon, as it will not measure the right amount.
Take ibuprofen tablets, capsules, granules or liquid with a meal or snack, or with a drink of milk. It will be less likely to upset your stomach.
If you take it just after food, ibuprofen may take longer to start working.
How long to take it for
If you’re taking ibuprofen for a short-lived pain like toothache or period pain, you may only need to take it for a day or two.
You may need to take ibuprofen for longer if you have a long-term health problem, such as rheumatoid arthritis.
If you need to take ibuprofen for more than 6 months, your doctor may prescribe a medicine to protect your stomach from any side effects.
If you forget to take ibuprofen tablets, capsules, granules or liquid
If you are prescribed ibuprofen as a regular medicine and forget to take a dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for your next dose. In this case, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the usual time.
Never take a double dose to make up for a forgotten one.
If you often forget doses, it may help to set an alarm to remind you. You could also ask your pharmacist for advice on other ways to help you remember to take your medicine.
If you take too much ibuprofen tablets, capsules, granules or liquid
Taking too much ibuprofen by mouth can be dangerous. It can cause side effects such as:
- feeling and being sick (nausea and vomiting)
- stomach pain
- feeling tired or sleepy
- black poo and blood in your vomit – a sign of bleeding in your stomach
- ringing in your ears (tinnitus)
- difficulty breathing or changes in your heart rate (slower or faster)
Urgent advice: Contact 111 for advice now if:
- you’ve taken more than it says on the packet of ibuprofen tablets, capsules, granules or liquid
Go to 111.
nhs.uk or call 111
Immediate action required: Go to A&E now if:
you’ve taken more than it says on the packet of ibuprofen tablets, capsules, granules or liquid and:
- your heart rate (pulse) has slowed down or got faster
- you’re having difficulty breathing
If you go to A&E, do not drive yourself. Get someone else to drive you or call for an ambulance.
Take the ibuprofen packet, or the leaflet inside it, plus any remaining medicine with you.
Dosage for ibuprofen gel, mousse or spray
The amount of ibuprofen you put on your skin depends on the product you’re using. Check the package leaflet carefully for how much to use.
How to use ibuprofen gel, mousse or spray
Gently massage the ibuprofen into the painful area 3 or 4 times a day.
Leave at least 4 hours between applications.
Most products must not be used more than 4 times in 24 hours. Check the instructions that come with the medicine to see how many times a day you can use it.
Never use ibuprofen gel, mousse or spray on your eyes, mouth, lips, nose or genital area. It may make them sore. Do not put it on sore or broken skin.
Do not put plasters or dressings over skin you’ve applied ibuprofen to.
Wash your hands after using it, unless you are treating your hands.
Do not smoke or go near naked flames as clothes that have been in contact with ibuprofen gel, mousse or spray burn more easily, even if they have been washed.
If you forget to put it on
Do not worry if you occasionally forget to use ibuprofen gel, mousse or spray, just carry on using it when you remember.
If you put on too much ibuprofen gel, mousse or spray
Putting too much ibuprofen on your skin is unlikely to cause problems.
If you swallow the gel, mousse or spray
If you swallow ibuprofen gel, mousse or spray, you may get symptoms including:
- headaches
- being sick (vomiting)
- feeling sleepy or dizzy
Urgent advice: Contact 111 for advice now if:
- you swallow ibuprofen gel, mousse or spray and you feel unwell
Go to 111.nhs.uk or call 111
Ibuprofen: instruction, price, analogues | Lekhim
Ibuprofen – NSAID
Ibuprofen is a widely prescribed NSAID, is considered one of the safest drugs in this group and is generally well tolerated, but, nevertheless, can rarely cause clinically significant and serious acute liver damage.
Ibuprofen has anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic effects.
The drug is prescribed for the symptomatic treatment of various types of pain, including headache, toothache, dysmenorrhea, neuralgia, back pain, joint pain, muscle pain, rheumatic pain, as well as signs of SARS and influenza. Ibuprofen is given alone or in combination with other analgesics, antihistamines, or anticholinergics, usually at doses of 200, 400, 600, or 800 mg. Pediatric formulations of this drug are also available from pharmacies. Ibuprofen is part of many combined drugs for the symptomatic treatment of dysmenorrhea, headache, allergies, and acute respiratory viral infections.
Ibuprofen. FDA Approved Indications
Ibuprofen is indicated and FDA approved for the symptomatic treatment of inflammatory diseases and rheumatoid arthritis. Ibuprofen was discovered in the search for an alternative non-corticosteroid treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. This disease was the impetus for the creation of the substance that eventually became known as ibuprofen.
Patented as 2-(4-isobutylphenyl)propionic acid (ibuprofen) by Dr. Stuart Adams and John Nicholson, it has become and remains one of the most widely used NSAIDs in the world (Halford G.M. et al., 2012). Today, ibuprofen is used as a monotherapy for the symptomatic treatment of pain in rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory diseases, with some research being conducted into the introduction of new treatments or dosage forms. One of these studies includes the creation of complex drugs based on NSAIDs and a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor for the symptomatic treatment of pain in rheumatoid arthritis (Akgul O. et al., 2018).
Ibuprofen is FDA approved for symptomatic use in mild to moderate pain. As an over-the-counter drug, it is used as a symptomatic treatment for muscle strain, joint pain, migraine, sore throat, SARS / influenza. Postoperative pain is one type of pain. One randomized, double-blind study demonstrated the therapeutic efficacy of i.v. ibuprofen, with i.v. acetaminophen being the comparator.
The effectiveness of drugs was compared in the treatment of postoperative pain in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy. As a result of the study, in the first 24 hours after the procedure, it was found that with intravenous ibuprofen therapy, the severity of pain decreases and thus it is possible to reduce the dose of opioids (Ekinci M. et al., 2019). Ibuprofen is widely used as an effective drug for the symptomatic treatment of pain, but research is constantly aimed at improving the effectiveness of its clinical use.
Ibuprofen is also FDA-approved as an antipyretic drug used to reduce body temperature in both adults and children. NSAIDs are much more commonly used in the treatment of fever in children, and much current research is focused on making ibuprofen more effective for this purpose.
Dysmenorrhea is a disease characterized by pain during menstruation, which can vary. Dysmenorrhea can be either primary, which is usually mediated by prostaglandin production during ovulation, or secondary to another disease such as endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease (Durain D.
, 2004). NSAIDs are often the therapeutic choice and are FDA approved for the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea. Transdermal drug delivery has been a topic of research in the context of the use of ibuprofen for the symptomatic treatment of primary dysmenorrhea. One study examined the use of essential oils as penetration enhancers for the transdermal delivery of ibuprofen in patients with dysmenorrhea. As a result of the study, one of the essential oils (Chuanxiong oil) was found to have a positive effect on the permeability and relief of pain symptoms when administered with ibuprofen hydrogel (Chen J. et al., 2015).
Ibuprofen and other NSAIDs are also FDA approved for the treatment of osteoarthritis. The results of a comparative study of celecoxib (a group of coxibs) and ibuprofen demonstrated the same tolerability and efficacy in the treatment of patients with osteoarthritis of the knee (Gordo A.C. et al., 2015).
Ibuprofen has been studied for the symptomatic treatment of gout attacks.
In 1978, a study by Schweitz et al. reported rapid improvement and reduction in pain in 10 patients with acute gouty arthritis (patients were treated with ibuprofen 2400 mg) (Schweitz M.C. et al., 1978). Ibuprofen is usually used as monotherapy for mild attacks and colchicine as therapy for moderate to severe gout attacks.
NSAIDs and colchicine are also often used in combination in the treatment of pericarditis due to the anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of NSAIDs. Since 2011, ibuprofen has been one of the most widely used NSAIDs in the treatment of pericarditis. Its efficacy has been demonstrated in the CORP and CORP-2 trials in the treatment and prevention of multiple relapses of idiopathic pericarditis compared to acetylsalicylic acid. The study found no significant difference between the two drugs in the treatment or prevention of idiopathic pericarditis (Schwier N. et al., 2017). In a 2014 review, colchicine was shown to be effective in reducing the incidence of recurrent pericarditis when used as add-on therapy to NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, acetylsalicylic acid, or indomethacin, but with limited study numbers (Bayes-Genis A.
et al., 2017).
Intravenous ibuprofen has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of patent ductus arteriosus in preterm infants. As a result of studies, a similar efficacy of ibuprofen with indomethacin was recorded in this pathology. Differences exist in the incidence of systemic vasoconstriction and renal toxicity; probably due to the lower selectivity for COX-1, ibuprofen was found to have reduced rates of both outcomes (Ferguson J.M., 2019).
Since 2007, USPSTF guidelines recommend the use of acetylsalicylic acid and NSAIDs for the prevention of colorectal cancer in certain populations. In 2016, they updated these recommendations, as well as recommendations from 2009 on the use of acetylsalicylic acid and NSAIDs in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases (Bibbins-Domingo K. et al., 2016). Although these recommendations do not apply specifically to ibuprofen, they do provide a solid basis for research that confirms the potentially great role of NSAIDs in the treatment and prevention of cancer.
The results of a study on the effectiveness of NSAIDs in the treatment of cancer, as well as some studies on the effectiveness of ibuprofen, have shown promising results. A review by Hil’ovska et al documented the potential use of NSAIDs in reducing the growth, morphology, and invasion of cancer cells; in the induction of cancer cell death and in the use of a lower dose of cytotoxic drugs (Hiľovská L. et al., 2015). The reviewed studies were mainly devoted to COX-2 inhibitors. With regard to ibuprofen specifically, some studies have suggested that it has a stronger antitumor effect compared to acetylsalicylic acid, namely in studies conducted in the treatment of breast and lung cancer (Harris R.E. et al., 2005). Also, when using ibuprofen or acetylsalicylic acid, the risk of developing breast cancer is reduced (Cuzick J. et al., 2009).
Similar to previous authors, Wawro et al. in their studies demonstrated potential indications for the use of NSAIDs, especially acetylsalicylic acid and ibuprofen, in the treatment of cancer in patients with colorectal cancer treated with vincristine monotherapy.
The proposed role of NSAIDs is primarily to prevent chemoresistance by inhibiting the proliferation of cancer-associated fibroblast formation. Vincristine stimulates the growth of cancer-associated fibroblasts through the secretion of tumor growth factors beta (TGF-β) and IL-6; when using acetylsalicylic acid and ibuprofen, scientists recorded an inhibitory effect of the drug on this pathological process. Their studies were based on the assumption that the probable mechanism of this inhibitory effect is associated with NSAIDs that affect the rate of regulation of microtubule polymerization dynamics (Wawro M.E. et al., 2019).
Ibuprofen. Pain in the pediatric population
Pain is a common symptom in children. For more than 30 years, the use of ibuprofen in the pediatric population has been the subject of research. The scientific literature has reviewed information on childhood illnesses over the past 20 years, drawing conclusions about the efficacy and side effects associated with the use of ibuprofen as an analgesic.
Ibuprofen has been effective in several pain conditions in children such as musculoskeletal pain, ear pain and acute otitis media, toothache and inflammatory diseases of the mouth and throat. The drug is a reasonable and effective alternative for postoperative pain, including tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy. It also remains the choice in the symptomatic treatment of pain in chronic inflammatory diseases such as arthritis. Side effects associated with ibuprofen are minor. It has the lowest gastrointestinal toxicity among NSAIDs, although some cases of GI toxicity (gastrointestinal toxicity) may occur. Adverse reactions from the kidneys are minimal, but dehydration plays an important role in the occurrence of kidney damage, so ibuprofen should not be prescribed to patients with vomiting and diarrhea. Ibuprofen therapy has demonstrated a good safety profile and evidence of efficacy in the symptomatic treatment of mild to moderate pain in children of various backgrounds. The analgesic effect of NSAIDs such as ibuprofen is mainly to inhibit the biosynthesis of prostaglandins.
A decrease in the synthesis of prostaglandins leads to a decrease in the production of glutathione and renal perfusion.
Benefits of ibuprofen and acetaminophen combined/alternating
Benefits of using NSAIDs and acetaminophen concomitantly or alternately have been suggested due to their potential synergism in antinociceptive effects, as well as the convenience of using an additional analgesic drug for pain that is not amenable to monotherapy at any dose of age. In acetaminophen, C max in plasma is reached after 30 minutes compared to 60 minutes for ibuprofen. In studies of antipyretic effects, acetaminophen maximally reduces high body temperature after 2 hours, and ibuprofen after 3 hours. The recommended dosing intervals are every 6 and 8 hours for acetaminophen and ibuprofen, respectively; thus, theoretically, they can be rotated every 3 hours. Short-term use of an alternating dosing regimen may be considered for the symptomatic treatment of pain that is not relieved by monotherapy (Massimo Barbagallo et al.
, 2019)
There are several randomized controlled trials of symptomatic treatment of headache in children. They concluded that only ibuprofen and sumatriptan were significantly more effective than placebo in reducing headache severity.
One Cochrane review included 27 pediatric randomized controlled trials of NSAIDs. Each of them compared the therapeutic efficacy of one of the drugs in this group with placebo. Efficacy was evaluated 2 hours after administration of the study drug. Based on a systematic review, ibuprofen appeared to be more effective, making it the drug of choice for the symptomatic treatment of headache. If migraine is suspected, NSAIDs and triptans should be considered. In case of nausea and vomiting, antiemetics and IV rehydration should be used (Raucci U., 2019).
Conclusions. Ibuprofen – safety profile among NSAIDs
Ibuprofen first appeared on the market about 50 years ago and quickly became a popular drug. In April 2019, the National Agency for the Safety of Medicines and Health Products (ANSM) of France issued a warning against the use of NSAIDs in patients with infectious diseases, based on an analysis of 20 years of real data on the safety of ibuprofen and ketoprofen.
Nevertheless, ibuprofen remains the basic drug used in the symptomatic treatment of pain of various origins, which is clearly confirmed in numerous randomized clinical trials and clinical experience. There is a review of the literature on the safety of ibuprofen and how it compares favorably with other NSAIDs. Ibuprofen therapy is characterized by adverse reactions not only from the gastrointestinal tract, which are dose-dependent and are especially characteristic for a certain patient population. Among NSAIDs, ibuprofen causes a relatively low risk of cardiovascular side effects. Overall, ibuprofen has a favorable safety profile and is effective in many acute and chronic pain conditions (Varrassi G. et al., 2020).
Do you often take painkillers? Tips for avoiding ibuprofen overdose
Tips for avoiding ibuprofen overdose
When we hear the word “overdose” we usually think of hard drugs or strong prescription drugs. But it is unlikely that you have ever thought about the possibility of an overdose of ibuprofen.
However, this seemingly safe pain reliever can cause serious harm to your health.
As an over-the-counter drug, ibuprofen is a popular remedy for headaches, fevers, chronic bone and joint pain, muscle pain, PMS cramps, and more. Ibuprofen is an active ingredient in many well-known painkillers, among them Nurofen, Next, Mig, etc.
Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). In other words, it helps reduce pain and swelling due to its ability to reduce the production of inflammation-causing hormones. All painkillers also interfere with the normal function of the nervous system by altering how nerve endings transmit feelings of pain in certain parts of the body. Ibuprofen is effective for injuries, recovery after surgery and various diseases. But, unfortunately, it is often abused, which leads to adverse and even dangerous consequences.
In some cases, overdose symptoms may appear when the recommended amount is exceeded. In fact, one study found that 11% of 1,326 participants who took ibuprofen exceeded the daily dosage.
In other cases, it is not the amount of the drug that causes the problem, but concomitant diseases that affect the absorption of the active substance.
How does an ibuprofen overdose happen
For any drug (prescription or over-the-counter), we recommend sticking to the lowest dose that helps you manage your symptoms. That is, more is not always better, and taking a high dosage can lead to side effects that only increase pain and swelling.
In the case of ibuprofen, an overdose occurs when too much of the drug is taken at once or when the body cannot absorb and completely eliminate the substance. Ibuprofen blocks prostaglandins in the body, sometimes called “local hormones” because they only affect a specific area of the body, not the entire body. Their job is to cause inflammation in an attempt to heal from an illness or injury. In some cases, inflammation is necessary for recovery, but a long period of inflammation can be harmful and lead to the development of disease and pain.
Ibuprofen, like other NSAIDs, slows down the synthesis of prostaglandins by blocking the cyclooxygenase enzyme. This helps to reduce pain and swelling, but it also affects the functioning of the blood, heart, and intestines. In some people, ibuprofen causes irritation of the intestinal mucosa, decreased blood clotting, changes in blood pressure, and intestinal upset.
One of the main disadvantages of taking large doses of ibuprofen is the risk of damage to the digestive system, especially the stomach and intestines. The drug also increases the chance of a heart attack or stroke, even among people who are not at risk. This problem is especially relevant if you take ibuprofen in large quantities for a long time to combat symptoms in the presence of concomitant health problems.
Ibuprofen has previously been linked to infertility in women, and a 2018 study found its negative impact on fertility in men as well. The study of French and Danish scientists involved 31 healthy white men aged 18-35 years.
One group of volunteers received 600 mg ibuprofen 2 times a day for 2 weeks, the second group was offered a placebo. Among the participants in the first group, the level of luteinizing hormone (LH) (the hormone responsible for the production of testosterone in men) increased significantly, but the ratio of free testosterone and LH decreased significantly already 14 days after the start of the drug. This condition is called “hypogonadism” and is associated with reproductive and physical disorders commonly found in older men. In addition, donor testicles from prostate cancer patients and human steroidogenic cells showed endocrine suppression under the influence of ibuprofen. This system consists of glands responsible for the production and secretion of hormones that affect body growth, metabolism, sexual development and function.
Symptoms of an ibuprofen overdose may include:
- increased risk of heart attack and stroke (which can lead to death)
- increased risk of convulsions or coma in case of severe intoxication
- gastrointestinal bleeding, especially in old age
- dangerously low blood pressure (hypotension)
- ringing in the ears
- blurred vision
- headaches
- disorientation, dizziness
- drowsiness
- digestive and gastrointestinal problems, including diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, heartburn and stomach pain
- difficulty urinating
- shortness of breath, shallow breathing and wheezing
- skin rash
Safe dose of ibuprofen
Ibuprofen is considered safe for most adults and children over 6 months of age, but of course, a person’s current health status has a lot to do with it.
There are many different diseases that affect the absorption of the drug, including heart disease, stomach and intestinal disorders, or blood clotting problems.
For adults without the conditions listed below, ibuprofen 600 mg four times a day is considered a safe dosage with little or no side effects. But this does not mean that this dose cannot harm you or add stress to organs, such as the liver or kidneys. However, the occurrence of adverse effects is still unlikely. This is still a relatively high dosage and should not become your norm. It should be taken when the symptoms make you really uncomfortable.
For mild to moderate pain caused by common diseases or injuries, adults are usually advised to take 200 to 400 mg of the drug every 4-6 hours. For severe pain, your doctor may recommend higher doses, such as 400–800 mg every few hours. Usually the interval between doses of ibuprofen should be 4-6 hours. This is enough for the body to remove a certain amount of the substance and prevent an overdose.
If you have any doubts, then take a smaller dosage and observe how you feel.
It is recommended to consult a pediatrician before giving ibuprofen or any other medicines to children under 2 years of age. The dosage for children depends on their weight and height, so read the instructions carefully and in no case exceed the recommended rate.
During pregnancy, be aware that painkillers, including ibuprofen, in the last 3 months of pregnancy may cause problems with the development of the fetus. Discuss with your doctor how you can get rid of pain and swelling without risk to you and your baby. During the period of breastfeeding, it is better to completely refuse to take any medications, if possible, since substances can pass into breast milk.
To reduce the risk of overdose and side effects from ibuprofen and other medicines, take them on a full stomach or with food. Do not take painkillers at the same time as other medications (especially steroids and blood thinners and blood pressure medications) or alcohol, as they can interfere with how the medication works and even cause toxicity.
Drinking alcohol along with painkillers, for example, can cause bleeding in the stomach, and combining ibuprofen with aspirin affects the functioning of the heart and blood vessels.
If you need to take several different drugs, then take ibuprofen at least 8 hours before or 30 minutes after medicines such as aspirin, ketoprofen, or naproxen.
Danger of ibuprofen and interaction with other drugs
People who have problems with absorption of nutrients or drugs, problems with circulation, blood pressure or heart, allergies to drugs, and the elderly are more likely to overdose on ibuprofen. An allergic reaction to ibuprofen is not the same as an overdose, but it can also be a serious problem, so look for symptoms such as sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, wheezing or difficulty breathing, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat
Due to the way ibuprofen is absorbed by the body, it may not be safe for people with the following conditions, so we recommend that you consult your doctor before taking:
- heart disease
- high pressure
- high cholesterol
- intestinal disorders affecting the absorption of nutrients and drugs
- diabetes (especially in combination with smoking)
- history of heart attack, stroke or thrombus
- gastric ulcer
- asthma
- liver diseases
- kidney disease
- fluid retention
- Autoimmune and connective tissue diseases such as Marfan’s syndrome, Schergen’s syndrome or lupus
- recovery after heart bypass surgery (coronary bypass surgery)
- allergic to other NSAIDs (eg aspirin)
- recent asthma attack or severe allergic reaction
How to deal with ibuprofen overdose
If you suspect an overdose and experience the symptoms mentioned above, the first thing to do is to go to the emergency room immediately.
There, the doctor will be able to assess your condition and help manage your symptoms.
You will likely have your temperature, pulse, respiratory rate, and blood pressure taken, and you may be given a laxative or activated charcoal to lower the amount of ibuprofen in your body. The laxative will help flush out toxins from the stomach and intestines, while the activated charcoal will attach to substances and heavy metals in the bloodstream and flush them out through the urine. Both agents are most effective when taken immediately after an overdose, preferably within the first hour after taking the medication.
In the polyclinic, the doctor will continue to monitor your well-being, breathing, heart and blood
In some cases, sodium bicarbonate may be used to combat the side effects of ibuprofen. After visiting the doctor, you will certainly feel much better. However, the best way to protect yourself from intoxication and any side effects is to choose the right dosage of the drug.
Natural alternatives to ibuprofen
If you often experience headaches, PMS, or other ailments that make you seek help from ibuprofen (or other medications), you should know that there are a large number of anti-inflammatory foods, herbs, and nutritional supplements that can also help prevent and treat symptoms. First of all, diet plays a key role in the development of inflammation, so a regenerative diet rich in antioxidants is the first step on the path to good health.
It’s not just nutrition that affects pain. Proper posture, exercise, sleep patterns, and lifestyle in general can also help manage it. So, good, sound sleep can be effective for headaches, body aches, and swelling. Exercise is great for dealing with digestive issues and joint pain, and proper posture can do wonders for lower back, neck, or hamstring pain.
In addition, there are many supplements and superfoods that naturally help reduce inflammation, swelling, and pain:
- Turmeric and ginger.
Turmeric is one of the most beneficial plants in the world. It contains the active ingredient curcumin, which works in a similar way to dozens of different medications. It helps control cholesterol levels and blood clotting, and fight symptoms of arthritis, depression, cancer, indigestion (such as colitis), diabetes, and chronic pain. Ginger is used in many parts of the world as a remedy for inflammation associated with arthritis and ulcerative colitis. - Bromelain. Bromelain, an enzyme derived from pineapple, helps with allergic reactions, indigestion, asthma, arthritis, and sinus infections.
- Magnesium. An important electrolyte that plays a role in signaling, balances body fluids, and helps relieve headaches, muscle spasms and constipation.
- Essential oils. There are many essential oils on the market that can fight colds and infections, relieve headaches, and speed up wound healing. The choice of oil primarily depends on the cause of the pain, but among the most common essential oils are peppermint, lavender, eucalyptus and tea tree.


Turmeric is one of the most beneficial plants in the world. It contains the active ingredient curcumin, which works in a similar way to dozens of different medications. It helps control cholesterol levels and blood clotting, and fight symptoms of arthritis, depression, cancer, indigestion (such as colitis), diabetes, and chronic pain. Ginger is used in many parts of the world as a remedy for inflammation associated with arthritis and ulcerative colitis.