Ibuprofen-induced Ulcers: Consequences, Signs, Root Causes, and Additional Information
Ibuprofen, a common nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is often used for pain relief. However, long-term use of ibuprofen may lead to complications such as peptic ulcers, a type of stomach ulcer that affects both the stomach and duodenal lining [1].
Risks and Symptoms of Peptic Ulcers
Peptic ulcer disease, a complication associated with NSAID use, can cause symptoms like stomach pain, bleeding, and in severe cases, stomach perforation [1]. Other risks include gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney impairment, raised blood pressure, and cardiovascular events such as stroke and heart attacks, especially with high doses or prolonged use [1][2][3].
People over 65, those with a history of ulcers or Helicobacter pylori infection, chronic illness, heavy alcohol use, smoking, or using blood thinners or steroids concurrently are at higher risk [1]. If you experience any symptoms related to stomach ulcers, such as indigestion, a burning sensation in the abdomen, feeling full too soon or uncomfortably full after eating, nausea and vomiting, bloating, belching, black or tarry stool, blood in vomit or stool, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, sudden or severe abdominal pain, dizziness, fainting, fast pulse, and deterioration in peptic ulcer symptoms, you should consult a doctor immediately [1][4].
Preventive Measures
To minimise the risk of ibuprofen-induced stomach ulcers, doctors recommend several preventive measures. Firstly, using the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible is crucial to minimise gastric irritation [3][5]. Secondly, taking ibuprofen with food can help reduce direct stomach lining irritation [2].
For patients requiring long-term NSAIDs, a doctor may prescribe a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) like omeprazole to protect the stomach lining and reduce ulcer risk [4]. Additionally, avoiding combining NSAIDs with other ulcerogenic medications like steroids or blood thinners unless medically necessary can help reduce the risk [1].
Regular monitoring of kidney function and blood pressure is also recommended when using ibuprofen long-term due to associated risks [3][4]. If there are contraindications to NSAIDs, considering alternative pain relievers like paracetamol may be advisable [2].
Additional Precautions and Treatment
Patients with known risk factors should consult their healthcare provider before using NSAIDs and discuss stomach protection strategies [1][4]. Doctors may also test for and treat an H. pylori infection and recommend quitting smoking to lower the risk for peptic ulcers.
In cases of peptic ulcers, doctors prescribe medications like PPIs and H2 blockers to help heal ulcers and manage their cause. Proton pump inhibitors like omeprazole, pantoprazole, and lansoprazole reduce the amount of acid the stomach produces, which prevents further damage while the ulcer heals [6].
While these drugs may cause mild side effects like diarrhea, headaches, and skin rashes, these usually pass once treatment has finished. However, if a person has any of the above symptoms, they should contact their doctor and seek emergency attention, especially if they are vomiting blood [1].
Recovery and Prevention
People generally make a full recovery, but there is a risk of peptic ulcers recurring. Doctors will recommend people use different types of NSAIDs or try alternative pain relievers. The outlook for peptic ulcer is positive once doctors have treated the underlying cause [7].
To prevent the recurrence of the ulcer, maintaining good hygiene, avoiding alcohol and smoking, and stopping NSAIDs are essential. Symptoms of stomach ulcers can be managed by adhering to these precautions and seeking medical advice when necessary [8].
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