People with body pain, fever and even cramps usually adhere to ibuprofen, as it is anti-inflammatory and is able to relieve all these symptoms in a short time. But you have to be very careful, because the drug can bring serious complications and future health problems.
“This drug may increase the chance of heart attack, stroke and high blood pressure. This has been seen with long-term use or in times of urgency, such as after heart surgery,” says Bárbara Murayama, gynecologist and obstetrician.
People with heart disease need to seek medical advice before using this medication.
“People who have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, overweight, diabetes should be careful with ibuprofen. But before making any decision, you need to talk to the doctor you trust”, says Bárbara.
Even those who do not suffer from these problems should be aware and avoid self-medication so as not to have health problems. Remedy only with medical advice and prescription.
Ibuprofen treatments
According to the doctor, ibuprofen is indicated for:
- Relief from pain, swelling and fever;
- Relief of menstrual cramps, as it has the effect of reducing the contractions of the uterus;
- Arthritis treatment;
- Gout treatments;
- Migraines.
Be alert
Before taking any type of medication, it is necessary to assess whether the person is allergic to the components of the formula. “If you have an allergy to ibuprofen, aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or any other part of the drug, this should be reported to your doctor. Inform about the signs of allergy and what you felt. This includes saying if you have had hives, itching, shortness of breath, swelling of your face, lips, tongue or throat, or any other signs. If you are pregnant, you should also inform the doctor”, says Bárbara.
Contraceptive: drug interaction
Many women have doubts about whether ibuprofen harms or inhibits the action of contraceptive methods. Bárbara says no, but that it is also ideal to talk to the doctor about the use of the medication.
patients
When the doctor indicates the use of the medication, he evaluates the benefits and harms that it can bring to the patient, so it is ideal to tell the professional exactly which medicines you usually use and what health problems you have. “For people with a history of heart problems, elderly patients, pregnant women or those with gastric problems, the drug is contraindicated. But only the doctor can assess the risk x benefit ratio of the use of this or any other medication. This is an assessment that must be individualized”, comments Bárbara.
Necessary care
Regardless of the medication, it is essential that the patient follows all medical guidelines and never self-medicates. “It is worth remembering that it is necessary not to exceed the days prescribed by the doctor and not to take it for fewer days than recommended. In case of allergies, the patient should stop immediately and inform the prescribing doctor”, recommends Bárbara.
It is also important to have routine exams to assess your health status annually. For this, visit your cardiologist, gynecologist and general practitioner to request the check-up.
The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. They do not replace the advice and follow-up of doctors, nutritionists, psychologists, physical education professionals and other specialists.