Common side effects of ibuprofen include diarrhea, dizziness, nausea, and stomach pain. Scroll down to know more about the severe side effects of this medication.
There are quite a few medicines that are commonly prescribed by doctors to relieve pain and inflammation associated with a physical injury or chronic ailments such as arthritis. One of the most frequently used medication to manage pain is ibuprofen. It is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug that has been quite effective to reduce the inflammatory response associated with a wide range of medical conditions.
Side Effects
Some of the common side effects of ibuprofen are given below:
- Diarrhea
- Decrease in appetite (digestion problems)
- Nausea
- Dry Eyes
- Dizziness
Serious
Studies have revealed that majority of people using ibuprofen suffer from minor health issues. Serious side effects that have occurred in a very small percentage of people are given below:
- Severe chest pain
- Kidney problems
- Liver damage
- Fatigue (excessive tiredness)
- Speech problems
Allergic reactions have also been reported in some cases. It is recommended that people who are allergic to this medicine should avoid taking it. An allergic reaction can cause:
- Red skin rash
- Hives
- Swollen face
- Trouble breathing
- Blisters appearing on the skin
Internal bleeding as a result of ibuprofen intake is a cause for concern. The following side effects of this medication are indicative of intestinal or stomach bleeding.
- Blood in the stools, tarry stools
- Vomiting that coughs up blood
- Blood in the urine
Long-Term Side Effects
Ask any doctor about long-term usage of ibuprofen and he would certainly not prescribe it. Overdose or taking its regular dose for a long duration can disrupt normal blood circulation that may prove fatal to the kidneys. Individuals on long-term use can even develop heart related disorders. Prolonged use of this medication can also damage the liver and cause jaundice.
Research has shown that adults are more susceptible to side effects of this medication. In fact, infrequent bowel movement (constipation) that may occur after taking ibuprofen, is more common among adults than youngsters.
Caution
People with existing medical problems such as heart disease, or high blood pressure have to take medical advice before using this medicine for backache or headache. This is because, use of ibuprofen may reduce blood flow to the heart, which is a cause for concern.
An easy solution to greatly minimize the risk of side effects is to take the medication in the recommended dosage. People not aware of effective dosage must consult a doctor before taking this medication. A pack of ibuprofen tablets comes with a leaflet that gives directions for use. So, adhere to the instructions regarding its usage to keep side effects at bay.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.