Two dangerous side effects of popular painkiller identified

Ibuprofen can pose serious dangers to people over 65, pregnant women, and patients with allergies to aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

As reported by BAKU.WS citing the National Health Service, British specialists are warning about this. The experts' recommendations are published by The Mirror.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely used to relieve pain and inflammation, but can negatively affect the stomach. In particular, ibuprofen increases the likelihood of developing ulcers, as it reduces the natural protection of the mucous membrane and enhances the production of stomach acid.

According to specialists, elderly patients are at increased risk. With long-term use of the medication, they are often additionally prescribed medications to protect the stomach.

Additionally, ibuprofen is not recommended for people with heart, liver, and kidney diseases, uncontrolled blood pressure, asthma, intestinal diseases, as well as chickenpox.

The medication should be taken with caution by patients allergic to other NSAIDs, including naproxen and aspirin. Reactions can manifest differently: some experience runny nose, sneezing, and watery eyes, while others experience wheezing and asthma attacks. Skin manifestations are quite common - rash, redness, itching, or hives.

In rare cases, severe allergic complications are possible, up to angioedema. This is precisely why doctors sometimes recommend taking additional medications along with ibuprofen to reduce the risk of adverse reactions and complications.