The NHS has warned against taking a commonly used painkiller if you experience three symptoms. If you have ever noticed any of these side effects, you should consider finding an alternative medication.
Ibuprofen is a type of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, or NSAID, that is used to relieve pain, fever, and inflammation. It is often recommended for ailments such as back pain, toothache, period pain, and sprains.
Most adults and young people aged 17 and over can take ibuprofen. However, for some people, it can be dangerous. The NHS warns that you must not take ibuprofen by mouth or apply it to your skin if you experience any of the following symptoms after taking the drug:
- Wheezing
- Runny nose
- Skin reactions.
You should also not take ibuprofen if you have had those symptoms after taking other NSAIDs such as naproxen or aspirin. Pregnant women should also not take ibuprofen—unless otherwise prescribed by a doctor.
