Ibuprofen works by reducing hormones that cause pain and swelling. Also used in combination with other painkillers in cold and flu remedies, it is a diverse and multi use drug. Just like other drugs it can result in a number of side effects, including those which require emergency medical intervention. The NHS advises that medical attention via A&E is required if “you have severe chest or stomach pain [which] can be signs of a hole in your stomach or gut”.
Furthermore, if an individual has difficulty breathing, a severe headache, high temperature, a stiff neck, dislike of bright lights or blurred vision and hallucinations after taking ibuprofen they should immediately call 999.
Additional guidance states that medical attention should be sought if a red skin rash, wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, trouble breathing and swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue or throat occurs.
These are symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, also known as anaphylaxis.
Side effects of ibuprofen are not just limited to the short term, consistent use of the painkiller of an extended period can result in long term damage.
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Over time ibuprofen can cause ulcers to develop in the stomach or gut and it should only be taken over a long period if recommended by your GP.
All side effects of Ibuprofen should be listed on the leaflet supplied with every single ibuprofen pack.
However, if a person does start to experience symptoms that aren’t listed, there is an online tool that can be used to report these side effects.
Founded in 1964, the Yellow Card scheme was developed by the MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency) for the public to report problems with pharmaceutical products.
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Today it is used to report “side effects to medicines, vaccines, e-cigarettes, medical device incidents, defects or falsified (fake products)”.
The purpose of the scheme is to monitor medicinal products and allow the MHRA to act, such as working with the manufacturer of the product to make changes.
In recent years the scheme has expanded to include an app alongside a specialist reporting page for COVID-19 vaccines, treatments, and testing kits.
Through this system an individual could report an unexpected or potentially dangerous side effect of ibuprofen.
Although there are concerns over the use of ibuprofen during pregnancy, it is recommended to rub on the skin when breastfeeding.
Overall ibuprofen is a safe drug, but not one without its dangers and side effects.
Every year more data is gathered on how it affects the body in different ways; in time guidance may change.
For more information on side effects see the back of the medicine’s leaflet or use the Yellow Card system if an unexpected side effect is felt.
