Ibuprofen

Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.

Side effects may be minimised by taking the lowest dose for the shortest time necessary to relieve the symptoms.

Known side effects of NSAIDs, which include:

• passing blood in your faeces (stools/motions)
• passing black tarry stools
• vomiting any blood or dark particles that look like coffee grounds

Allergic reactions can include the following:

• bruising or facial swelling
• swelling of the lips, throat and tongue which may cause difficulty swallowing or breathing
• breathing problems such as unexplained wheezing, shortness of breath, asthma or worsening of asthma
• skin reactions, for example skin rashes, itching, urticaria (hives) which can be severe with blistering and peeling of the skin
• rapid heart rate/palpitations, collapsing or low blood pressure

Should you experience any of the above side effects you should seek medical help immediately.

Do not take if you:

• have ever had a stomach ulcer, perforation or bleeding
• are allergic to ibuprofen (or anything else in this medicine), aspirin or other related painkillers
• are taking other NSAID painkillers, or aspirin with a daily dose above 75mg
• are in the last 3 months of pregnancy