NHS issues wa:rning to everyone who takes ibuprofen. If you are in one of these groups, you need to be extra careful

If you’re not feeling well, chances are you’ve reached for ibuprofen at some point. Though most adults and young people aged 17 and over can safely use this medication, there are some groups who may not be able to take it.

There are some different forms of ibuprofen such as capsules, tablets, liquid and granules. In a warning on its website, the NHS outlines who should avoid ibuprofen and highlights potential side effects, some of which may not be widely known.

So, who can and can’t take ibuprofen, and what side effects should you watch out for? Below’s what the NHS think you need to know.

Do not take ibuprofen if…

The NHS warns that you should not take ibuprofen by mouth or apply it to your skin if you have ever had an allergic reaction or symptoms like a runny nose, wheezing, or a skin reaction after taking aspirin, ibuprofen or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as naproxen. It also w:arns pregnant women should avoid this.

To ensure ibuprofen tablets, capsules, granules or liquid is safe for you, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you:

If you’re over 65, taking ibuprofen can increase your risk of developing stomach ulcers. If you want to take ibuprofen for a long-term condition, your doctor may also prescribe a medication to help protect your stomach.

To make sure that ibuprofen applied to the skin is safe for you, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have:

– kidney problems
– asthma
– hay fever
– allergies
– a stomach ulcer

What are the common side effects of tablets, capsules, granules and liquid?

These common side effects of oral ibuprofen occur in more than one in 100 people:

– Headaches
– Feeling dizzy
– Being sick
– Wind
– Indigestion

Call a doctor straight away and stop taking ibuprofen if you have:

— black poo or blood in your vomit – these can be signs of bleeding in your stomach
– swollen ankles, blood in your pee or not peeing at all – these can be signs of a kidney problem

Call 999 or go to A&E now if you have:

– severe chest or stomach pain – these can be signs of a hole in your stomach or gut
– difficulty breathing, or asthma symptoms that become worse
– a severe headache, a high temperature or stiff neck, and a dislike of bright lights – these can be signs or inflammation of the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord (meninges)
you have blurred vision or you see or hear things that are not real (hallucinations)

In rare cases, it’s possible to have a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to ibuprofen. You should call 999 if:

In their conclusion, the NHS suggests that if you or the person you know develops a rash that is swollen, raised, itchy, blistered or peeling, it could be a sign of a serious allergic reaction. In this case, it will likely need immediate hospital treatment.

In addition, ibuprofen can cause ulcers in the stomach or gut, especially when taken orally in high doses or over a long period. If ongoing use is needed, your doctor may prescribe medication to help protect your stomach.