Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on 6/6/2024

Drug Information | Side Effects | Use & Dosage | Request a Prescription

The use of ibuprofen can lead to various side effects in some individuals.

Common mild side effects of ibuprofen use include:

• Stomach pain
  
• Abdominal pain
  
• Diarrhea
  
• Constipation
  
• Gas
  
• Bloating
  
• Indigestion
  
• Dizziness
  
• Discomfort in the chest
  
• Heartburn
  
• Ringing in the ears
  
  

More severe side effects of ibuprofen use can include:

• Weight gain
  
• Shortness of breath
  
• Difficulty breathing
  
• Skin rash
  
• Swelling in the hands, face, hands, or feet
  
• Hives
  
• Itching
  
• Hoarseness
  
• Fatigue
  
• Pale skin
  
• Fast heartbeat
  
• Cloudy, discolored, or bloody urine
  
• Decrease in urine amount or frequency
  
• Stomach bleeding or ulcers
  
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
  
• Vomiting
  
• Heart or kidney damage
  
  

If you experience any severe or concerning side effects while taking ibuprofen, contact your healthcare provider right away.

Inform your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking before starting treatment with ibuprofen. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, as they may interact with ibuprofen.

Tell your provider if you are taking these medications or supplements:

• Blood pressure medications
  
• Diuretics
  
• Blood thinners
  
• Cyclosporine
  
• Lithium
  
• Other NSAIDs
  
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI)
  
  

You should also mention medical conditions such as:

• Heart disease
  
• High blood pressure
  
• High cholesterol
  
• Diabetes
  
• A recent heart attack, stroke, or blood clot
  
• Stomach ulcers
  
• Lupus
  
• Kidney or liver disease
  
• Asthma
  
• Smoking
  
• High potassium levels
  
  

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits of using ibuprofen with your healthcare provider.

Take ibuprofen exactly as your healthcare provider prescribes or as directed on the package. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of treatment.

Ibuprofen can cause stomach upset, so it is best taken with food or milk to minimize gastrointestinal discomfort.

Avoid alcohol while taking ibuprofen, as it can increase the risk of stomach bleeding.

Completing the full course of treatment, even if you feel better, is important to ensure the medication's effectiveness in managing your condition.

In case of an ibuprofen overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, black or bloody stools, or shallow breathing. If you suspect an overdose, contact the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222 or call emergency services.