Ibuprofen is one of the widely used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (in short, NSAIDs). This med helps inhibit the production of a few natural substances that cause swelling or inflammation. In some instances, this drug is also administered for treating autoimmune problems like painful joints (triggered by arthritis or related knee-based conditions). People who witness stomach problem are recommended to consume this drug with a meal. But, is it safe to take ibuprofen with antibacterial/antibiotic meds? It becomes important to have more details.
What is ibuprofen?
Ibuprofen is an NSAID administered for the treatment of painful knees or joints, inflammation, increase in body temperature, etc. Essential ingredients of this drug control enzymes responsible for swelling / inflammation. This capability enables ibuprofen to treat tooth aches, painful muscles, arthritis, etc.
No two individuals witnessing joint pains are administered the same medication plan. Your dosages (strength and duration) of this NSAID are influenced by your weight, age, gender, severity of pains and presence of any pre-existing clinical conditions. For infants aged between 4 months to 22 months, a dose of 5 mg per kg of weight is recommended. However, the highest dosage strength of ibuprofen must not cross the 40-mg per kg of body-weight per day.
In case of patients aged 2 to 11 years, strength is maintained at 10 mg per kg of weight; this dosage is widely administered for treating spells of fever. Here too, maximum intake value per day is kept below 40 mg/kg. For teens, younger adults and grown-ups, recommended dosage is maintained in between 300 – 400 mg. However, you must never take dosages of ibuprofen in excess of 1,200 mg within 24-hour timeline.
Can you consume ibuprofen with antibiotics meds?
A few forms of antibiotics may trigger internal bleeding; as ibuprofen is also likely to cause ulcers/bruises and bleeding, co-administration of such drugs can be quite risky. Also, a few antibacterial meds may cause renal dysfunction; since ibuprofen may also have counterproductive effects on your renal system, it is a key thing to talk to your treating doctor.
As there are many types of antibiotics, it is difficult to state which drug may cause an adverse side effect when taken with NSAIDs like ibuprofen, naproxen or aspirin. One of the proven ways to stay safe is to opt for a drug-interaction screening test. This test is performed by qualified medical professionals.
Safe intake of NSAIDs like ibuprofen
Intake of drugs such as ibuprofen can increase stress levels on your cardiac system. Hence, you are advised to stand cautious of acute pains in chest (angina) or erratic heartbeats. It is also recommended to report muscular weakness or spasms. On witnessing any of these signs, it is a safe practice to avail clinical help on an urgent basis.
Using NSAIDs like ibuprofen over a long term may cause possible damage of kidneys and may impair renal function. Such problems are more likely in people who are aged above 55 years. It is a safe thing to tell your doctor of the drugs you are presently taking. Better still, make a list of all meds you are consuming now; in this list, never forget to add all over-the-counter (OTC) meds, prescription-based drugs, supplements of minerals, vitamin-based supplements as well as proteins-fortified food products, if any. On the same note- include herbal drugs, and dietary aids, if you take any such products. If you are planning to take a vaccine shot, keep their treating doctor informed of all such shot(s).
Disclaimer
Information provided here are only of supplementary nature. Information shared here does not substitute a qualified doctor’s advice. This website is not suggesting intake of this drug as safe or appropriate. Hence it is advised to talk to your doctor before consuming this med or any other drug.
Education: Master’s in Nursing (MSN) from Johns Hopkins University. Experience: 7 years writing for online health portals and nursing journals, specializing in patient education and chronic illness management.
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