Can I Take Ibuprofen on an Empty Stomach?

Ibuprofen is a class of medicine belonging to a group called Non-Steroidal Anti Inflammatories (NSAIDs). These medicines help to reduce pain,inflammation and fever by reducing the production of a neurotransmitter/enzyme called “Cox”.

In the stomach, Cox helps increase the layer of protective mucus which protects the stomach lining from damage by acid and sharp enzymes. Decreasing COX levels can increase risk of stomach irritation. This is why it is always best to take Ibuprofen with food or milk (it helps buffer the harsh effects of the drug).

Given this, asking questions such as; “Should you take ibuprofen with empty stomach ?” is important. The answer is that taking one Ibuprofen on an empty stomach (especially for someone who has no underlying health issues) is not especially harmful. However, If you have an underlying history of Oesophageal irritation, Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), stomach ulcers or gastritis, it is usually best to avoid Ibuprofen (and similar NSAIDs) without food.

The following article aims to answer the question of “Can you take ibuprofen with empty stomach” further and in detail. If you are looking to purchase medicines like Ibuprofen as a medication for migraine or for other pains, you can browse these options on the Meds for Less portal.

Why Is Ibuprofen Hard on the Stomach?

Ibuprofen is hard on the stomach due to side effects that occur as a result of the medicine’s mechanism of action.

Ibuprofen belongs to a class of drugs called Non-Steroidal Anti Inflammatories (NSAIDs) that reduce pain, inflammation and fever by stopping the production of an enzyme called Cox

Cox, in the stomach actually has helpful effects, it helps maintain a lining of mucus and bicarbonate above the stomach cells and prevents stomach acid and enzymes from damaging the architecture of the stomach.

Taking Ibuprofen can damage the stomach in two ways:

• Reducing cox production which ultimately results in stomach acid being able to damage the stomach lining more
• Direct irritation of the stomach lining when Ibuprofen is taken in large dosages.

Ways of reducing Ibuprofen’s risk on the stomach includes:

• Take Ibuprofen with food or milk to buffer the stomach
• Avoid alcohol while taking ibuprofen since it can potentially increase stomach irritation
• Use the lowest dose of Ibuprofen for the shortest amount of time needed.
• For long term NSAID use, doctors may also prescribe a course of stomach protective medicine (PPIs) alongside.

Common Side Effects When Taken on an Empty Stomach

Taking Ibuprofen on any empty stomach increases chances of stomach irritation and side effects since there is no food to buffer the medicine’s effects. Common side effects that people taking ibuprofen could experience include:

• Stomach pain or cramps (from irritation of the stomach lining)
• Heartburn or indigestion (due to acid reflux and reduced protective mucus)
• Bloating or gas
• Nausea or vomiting

In severe cases (especially with frequent usage or high-dosage), symptoms can include:

• Gastritis
• Inflammation of the stomach lining
• Bleeding in the stool (including black stools or blood in the stool)

To prevent these side effects is why it is recommended to take Ibuprofen with milk, food or a full glass of water (at the least).

What to Do If You Already Took Ibuprofen Without Eating

Do not worry if you have already taken Ibuprofen on an empty stomach, for most people a single dose will not cause harm. There are, however, some steps you can take to protect your stomach and reduce discomfort, this includes:

• Eat something straightaway such as crackers, banana, bread or yoghurt to buffer the stomach lining
• Drink a full glass of water to dilute the medicine and reduce the impact on the stomach lining
• Avoid lying down immediately – sit up straight for 60-90 minutes to prevent reflux or irritation
   

Most people will be fine (even on a single dose of ibuprofen on an empty stomach) but it is best to watch for some symptoms such as:

• Burning stomach
• Persistent nausea
• Heartburn
• Vomiting blood or Vomit that looks like coffee ground vomiting
• Black, tarry stools

If either of the last two symptoms occur, stop taking ibuprofen immediately and seek medical attention.

The Best Way to Take Ibuprofen Safely

The principle behind taking Ibuprofen safely is reducing stomach risk and avoiding overuse. There are some basic concepts behind taking ibuprofen safely, these include:

• Timing and food:
  • Take it with food, milk or yoghurt (to help reduce irritation to the stomach)
  • Always drink with a full glass of water with it
  • Avoid taking on empty stomach
• Taking the right dosage:
  • Adults should use a maximum of 200-400mg every 4-6 hours as needed
  • Do not exceed 1200mg dosage a day without doctor’s advice
  • For children, use dosages that a doctor recommends for you (these are usually calculated based on the child’s weight)
• Taking for a minimum duration:
  • Use the lowest working dose for the shortest time possible
• Managing lifestyle
  • Avoid alcohol while taking ibuprofen as it can sometimes increase the risk of stomach irritation
  • Stay hydrated with sufficient fluids to protect the kidney against strain that NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) can cause
  • Don’t mix Ibuprofen with other NSAIDs such as Aspirin, Diclofenac or Naproxen unless specifically prescribed by a doctor.
• Keeping health in mind
  • Ibuprofen and similar NSAIDs are not prescribed normally for people with stomach ulcers, acid reflux, heart disease, kidney disease or people on blood thinners. If you have any of these conditions – please speak to a doctor before considering use of ibuprofen.

Are There Safer Alternatives to Ibuprofen for Sensitive Stomachs?

Yes there are safer alternatives to Ibuprofen that tend to be easier on the stomach. These options can be for people with gastritis, reflux or a history of stomach ulcers. The right alternative to Ibuprofen depends on why the medicine is being taken. 

If Ibuprofen is being taken for pain or fever, a safer alternative include Acetaminophen (Tylenol or Paracetamol). This medicine is much gentler on the stomach. 

For joint pain or stiffness, topical NSAIDs such as diclofenac or gel/cream can be used as suitable alternatives. Topical medicines do not get into the bloodstream directly and hence there is a much lower risk of stomach irritation.

If you are looking for medications for chronic conditions (such as gout or arthritis), suitable ibuprofen alternatives include medicines such as Celecoxib or Celebrex. These are also NSAIDs but are designed to be easier and gentler on the stomach.

There are also non-drug options for mild-to-moderate pain, these include:

• Hot or cold therapy
• Physical therapy, stretching or gentle exercise
• Herbal remedies such as ginger or turmeric have some anti-inflammatory properties (but not as strong as NSAIDs)

When to Contact a Doctor About Stomach Issues

Sometimes, Ibuprofen or other NSAIDs can irritate the stomach, hence it is important to know which side effects can occur and when to consult a doctor about any potential, related issues.

If you are experiencing ongoing stomach cramping, pain or indigestion after taking ibuprofen or symptoms like persistent nausea, bloating and heartburn, then this may be a sign that you need to consult with your doctor fairly soon.

If you experience any of the following:

• Vomiting, blood or material that looks like coffee grounds (signs of stomach or oesophageal bleeding)
• Black tarry stools (signs of stomach bleeding)
• Bright red blood in stool (signs of intestinal bleeding)
• Severe or sharp abdominal pain that does not improve
• Dizziness, fainting or weakness

Please seek medical attention immediately.

If you find yourself in one of the following groups:

• Adults over 60
• Have a history of ulcers, gastritis or GORD
• Taking blood thinners (Apixaban, Warfarin, Dabigatran), Aspirin or Steroids
• People with Heart disease, Kidney disease or Liver disease

Then please be more watchful for side effects of NSAIDs and consult with your doctor sooner rather than later.