Do Not Take This Common Painkiller Everyday, Warns Harvard Doctor
Overusing ibuprofen can cause headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, gas, and digestive trouble. Prolonged use may trigger allergies, blood in urine or kidney damage
In a significant health advisory, an American gastroenterologist has cautioned the public against the excessive use of ibuprofen, commonly kept for emergencies related to cold, fever, and pain.
'There is one thing I would never do as a gastroenterologist and that is take too much Ibuprofen," Dr. Saurabh Sethi, a Board-certified gastroenterologist, was quoted as saying in a Times of India report.
Dr Saurabh Sethi, practising in San Francisco, has highlighted the potential dangers of overusing this widely-used painkiller, which is often taken for headaches, joint pain, cramps, fever, and swelling.
According to Dr Sethi, who has studied at Harvard and Stanford University, while ibuprofen is generally considered safe, its daily consumption can lead to serious health issues such as intestinal inflammation and stomach ulcers. He explained that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can reduce blood flow to the intestines, damaging the intestinal lining.
Dr Sethi, who has observed severe inflammation and ulcers during endoscopies, noted that about 75% of regular ibuprofen users experience stomach inflammation, with around 25% developing serious conditions like ulcers. He emphasised the importance of being aware of the possible side effects before consuming ibuprofen.
'I perform endoscopies regularly and see these ulcers firsthand. NSAIDs reduce blood flow to the gut, which can harm its lining. I've seen young otherwise healthy people come in with gut damage so severe they ended up in the ER just because they did not know the risk of these medications," Dr. Sethi said in an Instagram video.
For those taking ibuprofen daily, Dr Sethi recommended discussing alternative medications with a healthcare professional. He also advised that ibuprofen should always be taken with food to minimise pressure on the stomach and prevent intestinal damage.
Excessive ibuprofen use can lead to headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, gas, and digestive issues. Long-term use may cause severe allergic reactions, bleeding in the urine, and even kidney problems. It is crucial for individuals to consult their doctors and fully understand the side effects before using ibuprofen extensively.
What Is Ibuprofen
According to a Times of India report, Ibuprofen, a widely used nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is commonly taken to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and bring down fevers. It's often recommended for managing discomfort caused by conditions such as backaches, toothaches, menstrual cramps, and muscle soreness, as well as symptoms related to colds, the flu, and even COVID-19.
In addition to easing everyday aches, Ibuprofen is also used to treat inflammation from injuries like sprains and strains, and it provides relief for those suffering from arthritis-related pain, the report said. It is sold under numerous brand names, including Advil, Motrin, Genpril, Midol (for cramps and body aches), and several others, each tailored for different age groups or specific symptoms, it added.
First Published:
May 01, 2025, 15:59 IST
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