Quick answer
What is ibuprofen and anti-inflammatory painkillers used for?
Ibuprofen is a common anti-inflammatory painkiller (an NSAID) used for pain, swelling and fever. It works well for many aches but does not suit everyone — it can irritate the stomach and is not suitable for some people. Take the lowest effective dose for the shortest time, with food, and check with a pharmacist if unsure.
What is ibuprofen?
Ibuprofen is a common painkiller that belongs to a group of medicines called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs. As well as easing pain and lowering a temperature, it reduces inflammation, which makes it useful for problems involving swelling. It is available from pharmacies and shops, and is also prescribed.
What it is used for
Ibuprofen is often used for:
- back pain, period pain, toothache and headaches
- sprains, strains and other injuries with swelling
- pain from conditions such as arthritis
- reducing fever
Using it safely
Ibuprofen suits many people, but not everyone. To use it as safely as possible:
- take the lowest dose that controls your symptoms, for the shortest time
- take it with or after food to protect your stomach
- do not take more than the amount stated on the packet or prescription
- avoid taking it with other anti-inflammatory medicines
Always read the patient information leaflet.
Who should be cautious
Check with a pharmacist or GP before taking ibuprofen if you have or have had stomach ulcers or indigestion, asthma, heart, kidney or liver problems, high blood pressure, or if you are pregnant or taking other medicines. In these situations paracetamol may be a safer choice.
Warning signs
Stop taking ibuprofen and get advice if you develop stomach pain, indigestion, or notice black or very dark stools, as these can suggest stomach irritation or bleeding. A serious allergic reaction is a medical emergency.
Common questions
- What is the difference between ibuprofen and paracetamol?
- Both relieve pain and fever, but ibuprofen also reduces inflammation and swelling, which can make it useful for things like sprains or arthritis. Paracetamol is gentler on the stomach and suits more people. They can often be taken together if needed.
- Why should I take ibuprofen with food?
- Ibuprofen can irritate the stomach lining, so taking it with or after food reduces the chance of stomach upset. If you need it often or get stomach symptoms, speak to a pharmacist or GP.
- Who should avoid ibuprofen?
- People with a history of stomach ulcers, certain heart, kidney or liver conditions, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or some types of asthma may be advised to avoid it. Always check with a pharmacist if you are unsure or take other medicines.
- Can I take ibuprofen for a stomach ache?
- It is usually best avoided for stomach or tummy pain, because it can irritate the stomach and may make things worse. Paracetamol is generally a gentler choice for that — and persistent tummy pain should be checked.