What are the side effects of ibuprofen?
Mar 09, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Bai Hongmei
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, ibuprofen is available in various dosage forms including capsules, granules, and tablets. Its side effects may include gastrointestinal discomfort, blurred vision, leg edema, liver and kidney function damage, and increased cardiovascular risks. Before taking ibuprofen, be sure to read the drug instructions carefully to understand the allergy history and contraindications. It is recommended to use the medication under the guidance of a physician.
Common formulations of ibuprofen include capsules, granules, and tablets. Its adverse effects include gastrointestinal discomfort, blurred vision, lower limb edema, hepatic and renal function impairment, and increased cardiovascular risk. If ibuprofen is needed, it is recommended to use it under medical guidance. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Gastrointestinal discomfort
Ibuprofen can inhibit prostaglandin synthesis in the gastric mucosa, weakening its protective effect and thereby irritating the gastrointestinal mucosa, interfering with digestive function, and causing symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. It may also lead to indigestion, with symptoms including abdominal distension, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite.
2. Blurred vision
Ibuprofen may interfere with the nervous system's control of ocular regulatory functions or affect blood supply and circulation to the eye's blood vessels, thus causing blurred vision, which may impact daily activities and safety.
3. Lower limb edema
Ibuprofen affects the kidney's ability to excrete water and sodium, while also altering hormonal balance and vascular permeability within the body, leading to sodium and water retention, which can cause lower limb edema, causing physical discomfort and inconvenience in movement for patients.
4. Hepatic and renal function impairment
Long-term or excessive use of ibuprofen can result in the accumulation of the drug and its metabolites in the liver and kidneys, exceeding the metabolic and excretory capacities of these organs, thereby causing hepatic and renal function damage.
5. Increased cardiovascular risk
Ibuprofen inhibits cyclooxygenase activity, reducing the synthesis of vasodilatory prostaglandins, causing vasoconstriction and elevated blood pressure. At the same time, it affects platelet function, promoting thrombus formation and increasing cardiovascular risk.
Before taking ibuprofen, carefully read the drug instructions to understand the history of allergies and contraindications. If there is a history of allergy to other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, use ibuprofen with extra caution, and it is recommended to take the medication under a doctor's guidance.
