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Ibuprofen is a commonly used nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can be effective for pain and inflammation relief. However, it is important to be aware of potential safety concerns and warnings associated with its use. Please review the following information carefully and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.

• Heart Risks: Ibuprofen may increase the risk of heart attack or stroke, especially if used long-term. Individuals with heart disease, high blood pressure, or those who smoke may be at higher risk. Avoid taking this medication right before or after heart surgery. Seek immediate medical help if you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or weakness on one side of the body.

• Stomach and Intestinal Bleeding: This medication can cause serious stomach issues, including bleeding and ulcers, which may occur without warning. The risk is higher in older adults or those taking certain medications like blood thinners. Contact your doctor if you notice stomach pain, black stools, or vomit resembling coffee grounds.

• Kidney and Liver Issues: Ibuprofen can impact kidney function, particularly in older adults or those with pre-existing conditions like diabetes. It may also cause liver damage, although this is rare. Symptoms like changes in urination, fatigue, yellowing of the skin, or dark urine should be reported to your healthcare provider immediately.

• Blood Pressure and Heart Failure: This drug can lead to fluid retention, raising blood pressure or worsening heart failure. Inform your provider if you have heart issues or are on blood pressure medications prior to use. Monitor for unexplained fainting or irregular heartbeat.

• Allergic Reactions: Severe allergic reactions are possible, including anaphylaxis. If you have a history of aspirin or NSAID allergies, consult your healthcare provider before use. Seek urgent medical attention if you experience hives, facial swelling, or difficulty breathing.

• Pregnancy Concerns: Ibuprofen may harm an unborn baby, particularly after the 20th week of pregnancy. Discuss potential risks and alternatives with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

• Phenylketonuria (PKU): Chewable ibuprofen tablets contain phenylalanine, which can be harmful for individuals with PKU. Consult a healthcare provider for suitable alternatives.

Avoid using ibuprofen if you have a history of asthma or allergic reactions to aspirin or other NSAIDs, or if you are undergoing or have recently undergone coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Always discuss your medical history and current medications with your healthcare provider to ensure ibuprofen is safe for you.

When taking this medication, you may encounter some common side effects that are generally mild, such as nausea, upset stomach, stomach pain, heartburn, headache, diarrhea, constipation, dizziness, drowsiness, and rash. These are typically manageable, but if they persist or worsen, it's advised to consult your healthcare provider.

There are also other potential side effects that warrant attention. These include low appetite, ringing in the ears, blurry or changing vision, and mental or mood changes. Monitoring your blood pressure is important as this medication may cause an increase. Promptly report any significant changes to your doctor.

Serious side effects, though rare, require immediate medical attention. These include symptoms of stomach bleeding such as vomiting blood or dark stools, severe stomach pain, and symptoms of a heart attack or heart failure like chest pain, trouble breathing, and unusual weight gain. Signs of a stroke, such as slurred speech or weakness, should also prompt urgent care. Kidney issues may present as tiredness, dry skin, decreased urination, and muscle cramps, while liver problems might show through yellowing skin or eyes, dark urine, and abdominal swelling.

Additionally, although very rare, allergic reactions can occur. Look out for symptoms like fever, swollen lymph nodes, itching or swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical help immediately. It's important to stay informed about potential side effects and to communicate any concerns with your healthcare provider.

When using Ibuprofen, it's crucial to be aware of potential interactions with other medications. Ibuprofen may interact with drugs such as Aliskiren, ACE inhibitors (e.g., Captopril, Lisinopril), angiotensin II receptor blockers (e.g., Losartan, Valsartan), Cidofovir, corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisone), Lithium, and diuretics like Furosemide. Additionally, ibuprofen can heighten the risk of bleeding if used with anti-platelet drugs like Clopidogrel or blood thinners such as Dabigatran, Enoxaparin, and Warfarin.

It's important to check all medication labels, both prescription and over-the-counter, for pain relievers or fever reducers, such as Aspirin or NSAIDs like Celecoxib, Ketorolac, or Naproxen, as they are similar to ibuprofen and can increase the likelihood of side effects. If you're advised to take low-dose aspirin (81-162 mg daily) for heart attack or stroke prevention, continue unless instructed otherwise by your doctor. Be aware that ibuprofen may reduce aspirin's effectiveness in preventing heart attacks or strokes. Discuss with your doctor whether an alternative like Acetaminophen is suitable for managing pain or fever. If ibuprofen is necessary, consult your doctor about taking immediate-release aspirin (not enteric-coated) and ensure ibuprofen is taken at least 8 hours before or 2 hours after the aspirin dose. Do not alter your aspirin dosage or medication regimen without your doctor's guidance.

Lastly, inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking, as this list does not cover all possible interactions with ibuprofen.