What happens to your body when you take ibeprofen and excedrin together?

Taking ibuprofen and Excedrin together can have several effects on your body and may lead to potential safety concerns. When combining over-the-counter medications, it's important to understand their individual properties and potential interactions. Here's an overview of what can happen when you take ibuprofen and Excedrin together:

1. Increased Risk of Stomach Problems:

Both ibuprofen and Excedrin contain ingredients that can irritate the stomach and increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects. Combining them can further potentiate these effects and lead to stomach pain, nausea, heartburn, or even gastrointestinal ulcers with prolonged use.

2. Potential for Liver Toxicity:

High doses of ibuprofen and acetaminophen (the main active ingredient in Excedrin) can both be hard on your liver. While therapeutic doses are usually safe, excessive consumption or frequent combination of these drugs may increase the risk of liver damage. Both medications can cause elevation in liver enzymes and potential toxicity.

3. Effect on Kidney Function:

Long-term use or high doses of ibuprofen and Excedrin may put strain on your kidneys. Prolonged or concurrent use of these medications may impact renal function, particularly if you have underlying kidney conditions. If you have preexisting kidney problems, consult a healthcare professional before combining these medications.

4. Interactions with Other Medications:

Combining ibuprofen and Excedrin can also interact with other medications you may be taking, including anticoagulants (blood thinners), antihypertensive drugs, antiplatelets, diuretics, and certain antibiotics. These interactions can affect the efficacy or safety of the medications involved.

5. Safety Recommendations:

To avoid potential adverse effects, follow these general safety recommendations:

- Do not exceed the recommended dosage of either medication.

- Avoid combining ibuprofen and Excedrin for an extended period without consulting a doctor.

- Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and over-the-counter products you are taking to ensure they are safe to use together.

- If you experience any unusual symptoms or side effects, stop taking the medications and seek medical advice immediately.

It's always advisable to consult a doctor or pharmacist before combining over-the-counter medications to ensure your safety and well-being. They can provide personalized advice and guidance based on your health status and individual needs.