Ibuprofin Effect

Ibuprofen is an over-the-counter medication used to treat minor symptoms such as aches and pains. It is a NSAID (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) that reduces pain by lowering the number of hormones present in the human body that are responsible for aches, pains and inflammation. These are uncomfortable conditions for the sufferer and may hinder recovery. Ibuprofen has positive effects that can reduce this discomfort, but has its share of negative side effects as well.

Pain Reducer

• A major positive side effect of ibuprofen is its ability to reduce a variety of minor pains in the body. These include headaches, backaches, menstrual cramps and pain in general that is not severe. A toothache can be masked with ibuprofen, and higher doses usually are given to patients who have had their wisdom teeth removed. A higher dosage may be used on other surgery patients as well, depending on the procedure and medication the patient is currently taking. Ibuprofen can mask pain until the body has had time to heal. Minor pains, including headaches and menstrual cramps, may be relieved by taking the drug and not return even after the effects have worn off.

Fever and Cold Reducer

• Ibuprofen can reduce cold and fever symptoms as well. These are both positive effects of the drug, allowing the ill person time to get the rest they need to fight off the cold. Ibuprofen can break a high fever. Fevers left untreated can continue to climb to dangerous or even harmful temperatures. The pain-masking effects of ibuprofen give a sick person more energy to take care of themselves by covering up the pain for short periods of time. It is important to note that ibuprofen does not treat the cold itself, it merely reduces the effects temporarily.

Short-Term Side Effects

• No medicine is without side effects, however. While ibuprofen can create good side effects, it can also cause negative short- and long-term side effects in both frequent and infrequent users. The short-term side effects of ibuprofen include headaches, rash, ringing ears, feeling dizzy or drowsy and heartburn. Other short-term side effects related to the stomach can occur. These include nausea, diarrhea or constipation, along with pain. Ibuprofen may also cause excessive bleeding if you receive a cut or injury.

Long-Term Side Effects

• Those who take ibuprofen for a long time are putting themselves at risk for more complicated and dangerous problems. The major risks include heart, circulation and stomach problems. Your risk of having a heart attack or stroke in your life is raised by taking this medication. Stomach problems include bleeding or a hole forming in the stomach lining over time. Even if you have taken ibuprofen for years, these problems can occur with or without prior side effects. Taking more than the recommended dosage increases the likelihood of stomach problems, while using alcohol with this medication increases your chances of bleeding in the stomach.

Serious Side Effects

• While long-term side effects are serious and may require medical attention, there are other warning signs to watch out for. If these symptoms occur while taking ibuprofen, you should stop taking it and go to an emergency room. These include allergic reactions, which are characterized by swelling of the face, mouth or throat, along with any type of chest pain or trouble breathing. Finding blood in your stool or when you cough is a sign that treatment is needed. Symptoms that do not go away, such as constant headache or fever, require a doctor's attention. Seek emergency treatment if the symptoms are severe.