Ibuprofen Precautions and Warnings

In the case of ibuprofen, precautions and warnings to be aware of with the drug involve such things as medications that may interact with ibuprofen (such as aspirin, ACE inhibitors, and diuretics). Examples of other precautions and warnings for ibuprofen users include an increased risk for bleeding in the stomach or intestines and not taking the medication while nursing. Other ibuprofen precautions and warnings to be aware of involve a risk of kidney or liver damage. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you become pregnant while taking ibuprofen.

 

An Introduction to Ibuprofen Precautions and Warnings

You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking ibuprofen (sold under brand names such as Motrin®, Advil®, Genpril®, and Nuprin®) if you have:
 
  • Asthma
  • Heart disease, including congestive heart failure
  • High blood pressure (hypertension)
  • Liver disease or liver failure
  • Kidney disease or kidney failure
  • Bleeding problems (or if you are taking medicine that decreases your blood's ability to clot)
  • Diabetes
  • Nasal polyps
  • Systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus or SLE)
  • Stomach ulcers, stomach bleeding, or a history of either condition
  • Any allergies to medicines, including aspirin or other NSAID pain medicines.
     
Let your healthcare provider know if you:
 
  • Are pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant
  • Are breastfeeding
  • Drink alcohol frequently
  • Smoke
  • Are having or have recently had heart surgery.
     
Also, tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 
(Ibuprofen Precautions and Warnings Continued: Page 2)
Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;