NHS 'tummy pain' ibuprofen advice - 'speak to your doctor'

NHS 'tummy pain' ibuprofen advice - 'speak to your doctor' Newspoint | 2026-02-28 17:39:38

NHS guidance says that some people should not take ibuprofen as it could actually cause them pain. On its website, the health service notes that this medication is a "type of painkiller called a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)."

Ibuprofen and other NSAIDs can help with lots of types of pain like headaches and migraines, joint and muscle pain, toothacheand period pain and more. Ibuprofen can also help reduce a high temperature. However, it can also "cause more side effects than paracetamol" and it could even cause "tummy pain" in some cases.

With this in mind, the NHS urges people to try paracetamol before taking ibuprofen. And if you experience any side effects while taking ibuprofen, you may want to stop taking it.

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Three key side effects of ibuprofen

The NHS cautions: "Like all medicines, ibuprofen can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them." Because of this, there are three serious side effects you should watch for.

The NHS says: "Ibuprofen can sometimes cause serious side effects, although most of them are rare. Speak to a pharmacist or doctor if you have any side effects that bother you or do not go away."

Possible serious side effects of ibuprofen include:

stomach ulcers or bleeding inside your stomach - causing symptoms such as tummy pain, shortness of breath, pale skin, vomiting blood or poo that's black, sticky and tar-like

an allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) - causing symptoms such as a swollen throat or tongue, a raised, itchy rash or difficulty breathing

a problem with your kidneys - causing symptoms such as shortness of breath, blood in your pee or swelling in your ankles, feet or hands

If you think you may be experiencing any of these call NHS 111 - or 999 in an emergency.

Common side effects of ibuprofen tablets, capsules, liquid and granules include:

indigestion and stomach aches
feeling sick (nausea) and being sick (vomiting)
headaches
a rash
dizziness
diarrhoea or constipation

The NHS further cautions: "These are not all the side effects of ibuprofen. For a full list, see the leaflet that comes with your medicine or search for your medicine leaflet on the electronic medicines compendium website."

Who can and cannot use ibuprofen?

Most adults can use ibuprofen. But ibuprofen is not suitable for everyone. For example, it may not be suitable if:

You've had an allergic reaction to ibuprofen, aspirin or another non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
You have a stomach ulcer, or you've had them before
You have asthma or allergies (such as hay fever)
You have chickenpox
You have a heart, liver or kidney condition
You have problems with blood clotting
You've had a stroke
You're pregnant or trying to get pregnant

Can I take ibuprofen?

The NHS says you should always take the lowest dose that works for you, and only for as long as you need it to lower the chance of side effects.

Do not take ibuprofen tablets or capsules for more than 10 days unless a doctor tells you to. For other types of ibuprofen, check the packet or leaflet to see how long you can use them, and if you can take them, as they may not mix well with other medications.

The NHS urges people to see a GP if the pain gets worse or does not improve. Always consult your GP before starting new medication or if you have health concerns.

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