Can You Take Ibuprofen And Amlodipine Together?

Quick Answer

Ibuprofen, an NSAID, may slightly increase blood pressure in those taking calcium channel blockers like amlodipine. Additionally, they can reduce blood flow to the kidneys and should be used cautiously in those with kidney problems. These drugs are sometimes used together, but it is important to be monitored by your doctor.

Detailed Answer

NSAIDs like ibuprofen, which are commonly used to treat pain and inflammation, are associated with an elevation in blood pressure, which is particularly significant in patients who take them long-term while also taking antihypertensive medications like amlodipine. The reason for this lies in the way NSAIDs work.

They reduce the production of a substance called prostaglandins, which play an essential role in maintaining renal blood flow and blood pressure. In some patients, this reduction in prostaglandin formation can lead to renal insufficiency, peripheral edema (i.e., fluid accumulation), and weight gain.

Elderly patients seem to be at an increased risk of adverse effects from long-term NSAID therapy and antihypertensive agents due to age-related decreases in kidney function and age-related increases in the risk of things like stroke and coronary artery disease.

To understand the effects of ibuprofen on blood pressure and blood vessels in patients taking amlodipine, a small study was conducted involving 12 individuals and published in the 'British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology'.

The researchers found that ibuprofen reduced the production of certain substances called prostanoids, which can affect blood vessel function and result in a small increase in blood pressure. However, they did not find any significant effects of ibuprofen on other measures of kidney function or the balance of fluids in the body (although other, larger and longer-term studies have found NSAIDs to affect kidney function).

Despite the small sample size of the study, its findings highlight the need for caution when taking NSAIDs along with antihypertensive medications like amlodipine.

Although in many cases, amlodipine can be safely used with ibuprofen, especially if it is just for a short period of time, it's important to talk to your healthcare provider before doing so. 

Monitoring your renal function and blood pressure can also help prevent any adverse effects of combining these medications.

In some cases, it may be prudent to consider alternative pain medications, such as Tylenol (acetaminophen). Be sure to talk to your doctor about what is right for you.

Final Words

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