Common Questions About Ibuprofen For Adults

NHS medicines information on common questions about ibuprofen for adults.

How does ibuprofen work?

Ibuprofen is a type of medicine called a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by reducing hormones that cause pain and swelling in the body.

When you apply ibuprofen to your skin, it works in the same way as when you take it as tablets, capsules, granules or liquid, but it only works in the area you've applied it to.

When will I feel better?

You should start to feel better 20 to 30 minutes after taking ibuprofen tablets, capsules, granules or liquid.

For some types of long-term pain, you'll need to take ibuprofen regularly for up to 3 weeks for it to work properly.

If you're applying ibuprofen to your skin, it should start to work within 1 to 2 days.

How does ibuprofen compare with paracetamol or aspirin?

Ibuprofen, paracetamol and aspirin are all effective painkillers.

Ibuprofen is good for period pain, toothache and migraines. It can also be used for back pain, sprains and strains, as well as pain from arthritis.

Paracetamol is typically used for mild or moderate pain. It may be better than ibuprofen for headaches and stomach ache.

Aspirin works in a similar way to ibuprofen. Like ibuprofen, it's good for period pain and migraines. But if you have heavy periods, it can make them heavier.

Can I use ibuprofen gel, mousse or spray at the same time as ibuprofen tablets, capsules, granules or liquid?

It will not do you any harm to use ibuprofen gel, mousse or spray at the same time as taking ibuprofen tablets, capsules, granules or liquid.

But if you're already taking ibuprofen by mouth regularly, you will not get any extra benefit from also using the gel, mousse or spray. These tend to be best for when you have a pain under the skin and in a very small area of your body.

Will ibuprofen affect my contraception?

Ibuprofen taken by mouth or on your skin does not affect any type of contraceptives, including the combined pill, progestogen-only pill and emergency contraception.

However, if ibuprofen makes you sick (vomit), your contraceptive pills may not protect you from pregnancy. Look on the pill packet to find out what to do.

Find out more:

• What to do if you're sick or have diarrhoea when taking the combined pill
• What to do if you're sick or have diarrhoea when taking the progestogen-only pill

Can I take ibuprofen for a long time?

If you still need ibuprofen after taking it for 10 days (or for 3 days if you're under 18) check with your doctor before continuing.

It's safe to take ibuprofen regularly for many years if your doctor prescribes it, and as long as you do not take more than the recommended dose.

If you need to take ibuprofen tablets, capsules, granules or liquid for a long time and you're at risk of getting a stomach ulcer, your doctor may prescribe a medicine to help protect your stomach.

If you're using ibuprofen on your skin and your symptoms get worse or last for more than 2 weeks, check with your doctor before continuing to use it.

Does ibuprofen cause stomach ulcers?

Ibuprofen can cause ulcers in your stomach or gut, especially if you take it as tablets, capsules, granules or liquid for a long time or in big doses.

If you need to take ibuprofen and you're at risk of getting a stomach ulcer, your doctor may prescribe a medicine to help protect your stomach.

What if ibuprofen does not work?

If ibuprofen does not work, there are other everyday painkillers you can try, such as:

• paracetamol
• aspirin
• co-codamol (paracetamol combined with low-dose codeine)

If pharmacy painkillers do not work, your doctor may be able to prescribe a stronger painkiller or recommend another treatment, such as exercise or physiotherapy.

Ibuprofen does not usually work well for certain types of pain, including nerve pain. Your doctor may have to prescribe a different medicine if your pain is related to your nerves.

Can I drive or ride a bike?

Ibuprofen can make you feel dizzy. If this happens to you, do not drive or cycle until you feel better.

It's an offence to drive a car if your ability to drive safely is affected. It's your responsibility to decide if it's safe to drive. If you're in any doubt, do not drive.

GOV.UK has more information on the law on drugs and driving.

Can I drink alcohol while taking ibuprofen?

It's usually safe to drink alcohol while taking ibuprofen. But if you're taking ibuprofen tablets, capsules, granules or liquid, drinking too much alcohol may irritate your stomach.

Is there any food or drink I need to avoid?

You can eat and drink normally while taking any type of ibuprofen.

It's best to take ibuprofen tablets, capsules, granules or liquid with a meal so it does not upset your stomach. Do not take it on an empty stomach.

If you want to find out more about this particular topic you can visit the Original article on the NHS website. If you are worried by any aspect of your health make sure you go and see your doctor or book an appointment at your local clinic.