Ibuprofen: The toilet signs signalling to ‘stop’ taking the popular painkiller

Pharmacist explains how paracetamol and ibuprofen work

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The oral version of ibuprofen comes in the form of either tablets, capsules, granules or liquid. You can purchase the popular painkiller in most pharmacies and supermarkets. If this is your go-to painkiller, it might be worth knowing the possible side effects of this medication. This includes certain toilet signals to “stop taking” it.

Ibuprofen is linked to a list of possible side effects that some people may experience.

Two more serious side effects indicating to “stop taking” the popular painkiller are blood in your poo or black and tarry stools, Medline Plus reports.

According to the NHS, black poo could be a sign of bleeding in the stomach caused by ibuprofen.

This poses a risk, especially, for people who take high doses of this painkiller on regular basis, according to a study in the journal Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology.

These people are three times more likely to experience gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding.

This study reported that “significant” GI bleeding can occur just after three days of taking ibuprofen in otherwise healthy people.

The participants in the study were taking 800 micrograms of ibuprofen three times a day for a period of 28 days.

If you experience any changes in your stool signalling this bleeding, you should “stop taking” the painkiller and call your GP, Medline Plus warns. 

According to the health portal, these are not the only signs indicating to ditch the medicine. Others can include stomach pain, heartburn, sick that is bloody or resembling coffee grounds.

However, these are “rare” side effects caused by the popular painkiller, states the Mayo Clinic.

Some of the more common ones include:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Wind
• Indigestion. 

There’s one more “serious” side effect of this popular painkiller that some might experience – an allergic reaction.

It’s not common but it might be worth knowing the signs as this needs urgent attention, the health service states.

An allergic reaction can manifest as skin rash, wheezing, tightness in the chest and throat, trouble breathing, or swelling of mouth, face, lips, tongue and throat.

These signs warrant calling 999 or going to A&E immediately, the NHS advises.

If you experience any troubling side effects that don’t go away, speak to a GP or a pharmacist.

Another thing to raise with your GP is taking ibuprofen for a long time. Your doctor might recommend an accompanying medicine for stomach protection as ibuprofen can lead to ulcers, the NHS warns.

Ulcers describe open sores that occur on the lining of the stomach.

To see the full list of possible side effects, refer to the patient information leaflet enclosed with your painkiller.

 

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