Critical insights: Doctor highlights risks of using ibuprofen
Ibuprofen has a list of side effects (Photo: RBC-Ukraine)
Ibuprofen is a popular pain reliever taken for various pains. The medication is readily available in most pharmacies and supermarkets. Like any other drug in your medicine cabinet, ibuprofen has a list of side effects that you should be aware of, writes Express.
What to know about ibuprofen
Doctor Deborah Lee explained that ibuprofen is a drug known as a COX enzyme inhibitor. Taking large doses of this pain reliever can pose a serious risk.
COX enzymes are necessary for the production of prostaglandins, which protect the stomach lining. When they are inhibited, the production of stomach mucus decreases, which can lead to problems with the gastrointestinal tract (GI).
"Large doses can cause gastrointestinal bleeding, peptic ulcers and/or pancreatitis. Liver and kidney failure can also occur," the doctor said.
Side effects of ibuprofen
According to Dr. Lee, these side effects may manifest as early as three days after starting ibuprofen treatment.
In one study, it was reported that gastrointestinal bleeding occurred in some healthy volunteers as early as three days after starting ibuprofen at a dose of 800 mg three times a day.
According to the National Health Service in the UK, the usual dose for adults is one or two tablets or capsules of 200 mg three times a day.
However, in some cases, your doctor may prescribe a higher dose - up to 600 mg, to be taken four times a day.
If you experience gastrointestinal bleeding caused by the use of the pain reliever, changes in your bowel movements may be the first warning sign. If you notice blood, seek medical attention urgently.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
