Brufen Side Effects

Brufen is a commonly used nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is available over the counter and by prescription. It is primarily used to reduce pain, inflammation, and fever. While Brufen is generally considered safe when used as directed, it can have side effects, some of which can be serious. It’s important to use this medication according to your doctor’s or the product label’s instructions and to be aware of potential side effects.

Gastrointestinal Issues

Brufen can irritate the stomach lining, potentially leading to stomach pain, indigestion, ulcers, and gastrointestinal bleeding. Taking it with food or using a stomach protectant may help reduce these side effects.

Heart and Blood Pressure Effects

Some people may experience an increase in blood pressure when taking Brufen. It can also cause fluid retention, leading to swelling and edema.

Kidney Effects

Brufen can affect kidney function, especially if taken in high doses or for an extended period. It can lead to kidney damage, reduced urine output, and in severe cases, kidney failure.

Liver Effects

While rare, Brufen can potentially cause liver problems, including liver inflammation and liver failure.

Allergic Reactions

Allergic reactions to Brufen are rare but can be severe. Symptoms may include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, and difficulty breathing. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience these symptoms.

Gastrointestinal Bleeding

In some cases, Brufen can cause gastrointestinal bleeding, which may result in black, tarry stools or vomiting blood. This is a serious side effect and requires immediate medical attention.

Cardiovascular Risks

Long-term use or high doses of Brufen may increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Headaches and Dizziness

Some people may experience headaches, dizziness, and nervousness as side effects of Brufen.

Tinnitus (Ringing in the Ears)

Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, is another less common side effect of Brufen.

Brufen is one of the leading brands of Ibuprofen, manufactured and marketed by Abbott Laboratories.

Presently, Brufen is available in Tablets, Syrup, and Gel forms.

Brufen Tablets : 200mg, 400mg, and 600mg strengths

Brufen Syrup : 100mg/5ml strength

Brufen DS Syrup : 200mg strength

Brufen Gel : 10%w/w

1. Other Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Taking multiple NSAIDs at the same time, such as Brufen and naproxen, can increase the risk of stomach ulcers and gastrointestinal bleeding.
2. Aspirin: Brufen can interfere with the antiplatelet effects of low-dose aspirin, which is commonly prescribed to prevent heart attacks and strokes. If you’re taking aspirin for this purpose, consult your doctor before taking Brufen.
3. Anticoagulants (Blood Thinners): Brufen may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant medications like warfarin.
4. Antiplatelet Drugs: Other drugs that affect platelet function, such as clopidogrel, can interact with Brufen and increase the risk of bleeding.
5. Corticosteroids: Combining Brufen with corticosteroids, such as prednisone, can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.
6. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): Some antidepressants like fluoxetine (Prozac) can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding when taken with NSAIDs like Brufen.
7. Methotrexate: Brufen can reduce the elimination of methotrexate from the body, potentially leading to toxic levels of methotrexate.
8. ACE Inhibitors and Diuretics: There may be a decrease in the effectiveness of certain blood pressure medications, such as ACE inhibitors and diuretics when used with Brufen.
9. Lithium: Brufen can increase lithium levels in the blood, potentially leading to lithium toxicity.
10. Certain Antihypertensive Drugs: The combination of Brufen and certain antihypertensive medications, like beta-blockers, may reduce the antihypertensive effect of the drugs.
11. Phenytoin: The combination of Brufen and phenytoin can lead to increased phenytoin levels in the blood, potentially causing toxicity.
12. Mifepristone: The efficacy of mifepristone (used for medical abortion) may be reduced when taken with Brufen.
13. Cyclosporine and Tacrolimus: Brufen may increase the levels of these immunosuppressive drugs in the blood, potentially leading to toxicity.