Ibuprofen is a popular painkiller that can be used to relieve a variety of symptoms, but there are certain groups of people who should avoid taking it – including those born after a certain dateThere are certain people who should not take Ibuprofen

If you’re feeling under the weather, it’s likely that you’ve reached for ibuprofen at some point. While this medicine is generally safe for most adults and teenagers aged 17 and over, there are certain groups who may not be suitable candidates.

Ibuprofen is available in various forms including tablets, capsules, liquid and granules. The NHS provides guidance on its website about who should avoid ibuprofen and highlights potential side effects, some of which may not be widely known.

For example, the NHS advises against taking ibuprofen orally or applying it to your skin if you’ve previously had an allergic reaction or symptoms such as wheezing, a runny nose or a skin reaction after using aspirin, ibuprofen or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like naproxen.

The guidance also recommends pregnant women to steer clear of this medication. Additionally, individuals of a certain age, or those born after a specific date, might be unaware that using ibuprofen increases their risk of stomach ulcers.

According to NHS guidance: “If you’re over 65, ibuprofen can make you more likely to get stomach ulcers. Your doctor will prescribe you a medicine to protect your stomach if you’re taking ibuprofen for a long-term condition.”, reports the Mirror.

Anyone wanting to confirm whether ibuprofen is appropriate for them should inform their GP if they:

  • have ever experienced stomach bleeding or a perforation in your stomach due to an NSAID
  • have had more than one instance of a stomach perforation, stomach bleeding or a stomach ulcer
  • have a health condition that increases your risk of bleeding
  • suffer from severe heart failure, severe kidney failure or severe liver failure
  • are pregnant or trying to conceive
  • have uncontrolled high blood pressure
  • have heart disease or mild to moderate heart failure, or if you’ve previously had a stroke
  • have kidney or liver issues
  • suffer from asthma, hay fever or allergies
  • have Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
  • have chickenpox – as taking ibuprofen can heighten the risk of certain infections and skin reactions