Ibuprofen

[scrambledegg]

I know that taking ibuprofen with pred. is usually not a good idea but I remember reading somewhere here (tried searching FAQ’s but couldn’t find anything) that occasionally it’s OK.

I’m on 7mg pred. daily and have had a dodgy sacroiliac joint for years. I’ve managed to set it off again(gardening this time) and the usual paracetamol isn’t helping much. I’ve just taken some paracetamol with ibuprofen and it seems to be having an effect. Could anyone remind me why this isn’t usually recommended (I know it’s anti inflammatory as is pred. but interested to know what it’s doing to me) and how long anyone else has taken it for?

Thanks so much for all the advice and support so readily given here. I may not contribute much but I read the posts most days and find it so interesting and comforting to know it’s always here.

[Mrsd12f]

Similar situation here, Scrambledegg. I think the reason is mainly the effect on the stomach, as it can cause bleeds. I agree that it’s more effective than paracetamol, which is very little help for this sort of pain. You can use the gel, but I don’t find that as good as the tablets and it’s a bit hit and miss when you’re trying to apply it.

I'm sure somebody who knows what they’re talking about will be along, shortly.

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

PMRpro often says her Rheumy (a leading light in the field ) is happy for her to take a flooding dose so long as it’s short term and she takes stomach protection forthe time on it.

As Mrsd12f says, there’s a concern with taking it long term and with steroids as they both can cause stomach bleeds.

I did use ibuprofen gel sparingly whilst still on steroids for osteoarthritis and same as you - which, touch wood seems to be reasonably ok at present. Put that down Pilates.

[Koalajane]

I have to say go very careful when taking ibuprofen. My son took it as directed and collapsed with awful stomach bleeds and had to be rushed to hospital and have blood transfusions. I know I will never take ibuprofen after this

[tangocharlie]

All I know is that Ibuprofen has an anti-inflammatory element (its a non-steroidal anti inflammatory or NSAID) whereas paracetemol is just a painkiller, so they work in very different ways to alleviate pain. I'm no techie or medic but my understanding is that Ibuprofen is absorbed by the stomach hence you need to protect your stomach when taking it whereas paracetemol is absorbed by your liver

[scrambledegg in reply to tangocharlie]

Thanks for the stomach/liver info. I didn’t know that and it explains why paracetamol and ibuprofen seem to be treated so differently

[Ladyhillingdon]

It is not only the stomach problems with Ibuprofen- There is a real risk of acute renal failure with Ibuprofen it reduces the blood flow to the kidneys.

[proactive]

I think both prednisone and ibuprofen can irritate the stomach. It might be helpful to us the topical ointment form of ibuprofen instead as it is absorbed through skin when applied to the area of pain and bypasses the stomach. In Canada, the brand name is Voltaren, but there is a stronger one available by prescription. Talk to your pharmacist or Doctor. I have used it short term a few times and it has been effective.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

Both pred and NSAIDs (ibuprofen is one) can irritate the stomach. It isn't just the mechanical effects but also through the way they work involving prostaglandins.

I know a few people like koalajane's son who developed gastric bleeds very quickly - one had take 3 doses before ending up in the ED.

Both are absorbed in the stomach and both are metabolised in the liver. It is a lot more complicated than just where! Using either longterm is not good for you - there are potential liver, renal and cardiac effects. Unfortunately they are now realising just how bad all the tranditional painkillers are for the human body!!! There isn't a really safe and effective one.