Taking a common painkiller with a natural supplement can pose a significant risk, more so than alcohol. Ibuprofen, available over-the-counter in most UK supermarkets and pharmacies, works by reducing pain-causing hormones for various conditions like back pain, period pain, toothache, and cold or flu symptoms. Typically, individuals take ibuprofen three to four times daily in tablet, capsule, or granule form. It is advised to consume ibuprofen with food or milk to minimize stomach irritation and delay the onset of action if taken after a meal.
While it is safe to combine ibuprofen with paracetamol or codeine, caution is advised when taking it with aspirin or naproxen as they are part of the same NSAIDs group, which may lead to increased side effects like stomach discomfort. The NHS recommends refraining from pairing gingko biloba with ibuprofen due to a higher risk of bleeding, as herbal supplements are not as rigorously tested as pharmaceuticals.
Common side effects of ibuprofen affect about one in 100 individuals, with more severe but rare reactions requiring immediate medical attention. In cases of serious allergic reactions like anaphylaxis, individuals should discontinue ibuprofen and seek medical assistance promptly. Adverse effects can be reported through the Yellow Card safety scheme.