Relieving pain by taking an ibuprofen cachet is frequent. But beware of abuse! This medication may cause different side effects, more or less dangerous. Dr. Gérald Kierzek, medical director of True Medical, reveals 8 situations to us where the taking of ibuprofen is strongly advised against.
In case of gastric disorders and ulcers
If the use of this drug still requires the greatest caution (the lowest effective dose must be favored, in the same way as the duration of use, which must be as short as possible), it happens that this tablet is formally not recommended. And this is precisely the case during gastric disorders and ulcers.
“”Ibuprofen inhibits the production of prostaglandins, which are notably responsible for the protection of the stomach mucosa. Without this protection, gastric acid can attack the stomach wall“, Reveals the medical director of True Medical. Result, “You risk suffering from stomach burns, abdominal pain, nausea, ulcers (gastric or duodenal) and in the most serious cases, digestive hemorrhages or perforation”, he continues.
Consequently, the elderly, those with history of ulcer, as well as individuals taking corticosteroids or anticoagulants simultaneously – or consuming alcohol excessively – must avoid taking this medication.
In case of cardiovascular problems
“NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, can cause water and salt retention, increase blood pressure and promote the formation of clots. They can also increase the risk of myocardial and stroke infarction (stroke), even during short -term use, this risk being higher in the event of large doses or prolonged use. warns Dr Gérald Kierzek.
The most risky people? Those with cardiac history, high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, diabetes, or smoking.
In case of renal damage
Prostaglandins are essential to maintain a good blood flow to the kidneys.
“However, ibuprofen can reduce this irrigation, which exposes to certain risks, such as acute renal failure (often reversible to stopping medication), edema linked to water retention or the worsening of preexisting chronic kidney failure. The most vulnerable people are the elderly, dehydrated, suffering from renal, heart or liver insufficiency, as well as those taking certain diuretics “, warns the emergency doctor.
In case of allergic and skin reactions
“Ibuprofen can cause benign skin reactions (eruptions, urticaria). In rare cases, serious reactions can occur, such as Lyell syndrome (toxic epidermal necrolysis) or Stevens-Johnson syndrome, which are both absolute medical emergencies. Ibuprofen can also trigger severe asthma attacks in people allergic to aspirin or NSAIDs “, underlines the medical director of True Medical.
Ibuprofen: watch out for dangerous drug interactions
“The simultaneous taking of ibuprofen with certain drugs can be particularly dangerous. When associated with anticoagulants such as warfarin, the risk of hemorrhage is major. In combination with corticosteroids such as prednisone, it multiplies the risk of ulcer and digestive hemorrhage. With certain antihypertens (diuretics, IEC, ARA II) Ibuprofen can decrease their effectiveness and worsen kidney failure. Finally, when taken with low -dose aspirin used to fluidify blood, ibuprofen can antagonize the heart protective effect “, Alert Dr. Gérald Kierzek.
Some special cases and contraindications
Certain situations constitute contraindications to the use of ibuprofen.
“In pregnant women from the sixth month, it is thus formally contraindicated, because it can be toxic to the fetus, resulting in a risk of renal failure and cardiopulmonary problems. In children and infants, use must only be done on medical advice, for precise indications such as fever, and with a dosage strictly adapted to weight. IbuproFen is also to be proscribed in Because it increases the risk of skin and infectious complications. recalls the doctor.
Ibuprofen: What good practices adopt?
If they are multiple and varied, the medical director of True Medical recommends “Always take this medication during a meal with a large glass of water “. Beforehand, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking ibuprofen, especially if:
- You are over 65;
- You have medical history (stomach, heart, kidneys, liver, asthma);
- You take other drugs;
- You are pregnant or you are breastfeeding.
Last warning: “It is also advisable to be vigilant in case of infection, like a dental abscess, because it can worsen the infection “, concludes Dr Gérald Kierzek.