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?

Asked by Commodore On Aug 21, 2022

Answered by
Medical Content Reviewed By HelloPharmacist Staff

Published Aug 21, 2022
Last updated Apr 25, 2024

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) â€‹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.

References

  • A comparative study of oral tramadol and ibuprofen in postoperative pain in operations of lower abdomen, PubMed
  • Tramadol Monograph, PubChem
  • Ibuprofen Monograph, PubChem

About the Pharmacist

Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD

Dr. Brian has been practicing pharmacy for over 13 years and has wide-ranging experiences in many different areas of the profession. From retail, clinical, program development, and administrative responsibilities, he's your knowledgeable and go-to source for all your pharmacy and medication-related questions! Dr. Brian Staiger also has herbalist training and educational certificates in the field of medical ethnobotany. Feel free to send him an email at [email protected]! You can also connect with Dr. Brian Staiger on LinkedIn.

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