The NHS has issued a caution regarding the potential risks of combining certain widely-used painkillers with specific medications. It is advisable to consult your GP before using paracetamol or ibuprofen if you are taking certain medicines, the health service recommended.
Many individuals rely on over-the-counter pain relievers for common ailments. Paracetamol is commonly used for headaches, back pain, and colds, among other conditions.
Similarly, ibuprofen is widely available in the UK and is used for various types of pain, including back pain, menstrual pain, toothaches, and to alleviate symptoms of colds, flu, or even COVID-19. While these medications are generally safe when used as directed, they do come with certain precautions.
According to the NHS website, specific other medications should not be taken alongside paracetamol and ibuprofen.
The NHS highlights that paracetamol may not be suitable for everyone, particularly for individuals who are on warfarin, a blood clot prevention medication. It is recommended to consult your doctor before using paracetamol if you are on warfarin, as paracetamol can increase the risk of bleeding when taken regularly.
Despite this, it is safe to take low-dose paracetamol with warfarin, but it is crucial to follow the recommended dosage to avoid potential risks of increased bleeding.
When it comes to combining medications, it is potentially dangerous to mix paracetamol with other medications containing paracetamol, such as co-codamol or certain cold and flu remedies, as it can lead to overdose risks.
On the other hand, ibuprofen, aspirin, and codeine are painkillers that do not contain paracetamol and can be safely taken alongside it. The NHS advises consulting your doctor before taking paracetamol if you are on medication for epilepsy or tuberculosis, as it may pose risks.
The NHS website warns that ibuprofen may not interact well with certain medications and advises against taking it simultaneously with other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin, diclofenac, celecoxib, and naproxen, due to the increased risk of side effects like stomach bleeding or kidney issues.
It is important to check labels for aspirin, ibuprofen, or other NSAIDs before taking any additional medications. Furthermore, individuals taking gingko biloba supplements should avoid combining them with ibuprofen as it can raise the risk of bleeding.
If you experience any adverse effects while taking ibuprofen, you should seek medical attention immediately or contact 111 for assistance.
