Ibuprofen Warnings You Should Know

Ibuprofen is a pain killer that most people prefer to use over prescription pain killers due to the low cost. Ibuprofen is a prescription drug or may be purchased over the counter. Most people who take Ibuprofen do not check into the side effects. However, there are many side effects in taking Ibuprofen that many people may be unaware of.

Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen is listed within a group of drugs called NSAIDs, non-steroidal anti inflammatory drugs. These drugs relieve pain and inflammation by reducing hormones within the body that causes the inflammation. It may be taken as a prescription, prescribed by your doctor or you may purchase it over the counter. It is used to treat most pains associated with arthritis, joint pain, headaches, menstrual cramps, and toothaches. It is also taken as a fever reducer. Ibuprofen does carry a risk a side effects. Some of these effects may cause permanent damage.

Liver

The liver is the largest glandular organ in the body and weighs approximately 3 pounds. The liver is a vital organ in the body. It is divided into four unequal size and shape and is reddish brown in color. It is located on the right side of the abdominal cavity. Recent studies show now that Ibuprofen can cause damage to the liver, especially if the person takes Ibuprofen more than what is prescribed. It can also cause liver damage by ingesting alcoholic beverages while taking Ibuprofen. It is recommended that if a person drinks more than three alcoholic beverages a day, then you should not take Ibuprofen. This can raise a persons liver enzymes and thus beginning the process of liver damage. No symptoms may appear at the beginning of possible liver damage. Blood tests may be prescribed by your doctor to keep a check on liver enzymes

Warnings

Many people are unaware of the dangers that can occur while taking Ibuprofen. There are warning labels on the bottles, but many ignore these warnings. Taking medications, like Ibuprofen can increase your risk of circulatory problems that include a heart attack or stroke. If you begin experiencing shortness of breath, chest pains, or weakness then you should seek medical attention. Another danger associated with this medication is serious effects on a persons stomach and intestines. It can cause bleeding or perforation which is a hole that has formed in the stomach or intestines. These gastrointestinal problems can be fatal. Often times, these problems can happen with no warning while taking Ibuprofen. There are signs to look for if damage has been done to the intestines or stomach. Signs of intestinal problems are black, bloody, or stools that look like tar. Signs of stomach problems are vomiting blood up that resembles coffee grounds or coughing blood up. Most of these effects have occurred in people over the age of 75. Again, a doctor should be consulted if any of these symptoms arise while taking this medication.

Prevention

Taking the recommended dosage if safe. Problems occur when people take over the recommended dosage and for long periods off time. A normal dosage consists of 800 milligrams not exceeding 3200 milligrams per day. That equals to four dosages a day. Normally, Ibuprofen should not be taken for more than seven days. If pain persists after those seven days, then consult a physician. Do not mix with alcohol and adults who are 75 and older should stay away from Ibuprofen. If you are unsure about the safety of Ibuprofen, consult your doctor and ask in dept questions. Tell your doctor if you have had problems with taking this medication before. They may suggests other medications to take instead of Ibuprofen. Never take over the recommend dosage, this may cause serious effects on the body.

Source

Drugs.com, May 2008, http://www.drugs.com/ibuprofen.html , May 28, 2009