Tramadol With Advil (Ibuprofen)
Our pharmacist answers the latest question regarding whether or not there is an interaction between tramadol and ibuprofen.

Question
I have been taking tramadol and I am still having pain. Can I take tramadol and ibuprofen together?

Answered by Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Medical Content Reviewed By HelloPharmacist
Staff
Last updated Apr 05, 2025
Key points
- There is no drug interaction between Advil (ibuprofen) and tramadol.
Yes, you can take Advil (ibuprofen) and tramadol together.
There is no known interaction between the two medications. While both medications are used for pain relief, they work by different mechanisms and will not interact with one another. Additionally, ibuprofen has anti-inflammatory properties while tramadol does not. Using both together can have a synergistic effect.
In fact, certain studies have found that the combination of tramadol and ibuprofen is both safe and effective for most individuals.
For the most part, the drugs don't share the side effect profiles, aside from the fact that they can both cause stomach upset. It would be prudent to take them with food. There are some precautions to take note of, especially if you are at an increased risk of bleeding (as both can increase that risk further), but overall, again, they are safe to use together.
Advil (Ibuprofen) Info
Ibuprofen (Advil) is an NSAID, Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug. It is available over the counter in a dose of 200mg and is also available by prescription at higher strengths.
Ibuprofen (Advil) works as a pain reliever, fever reducer, and anti-inflammatory medicine.
While effective, all NSAID drugs carry an increased risk of certain adverse effects such as bleeding and ulceration...especially if given at high doses for long periods of time.
Tramadol (Ultram) Info
Tramadol is a pain reliever that is used for more moderate to severe pain.
It is classified as an opioid agonist, similar to hydrocodone and oxycodone, but is generally considered to be less potent than most opioid agonists.
It also works on several neurotransmitters such as serotonin and norepinephrine. Tramadol is a controlled medication and may be habit-forming with long-term use.
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Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
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