Ibuprofen, sold commonly over the counter (OTC) as Motrin, Nuprin, Advil and Midol, is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, or NSAID. It is a pain reliever most useful for controlling inflammation symptoms such as those associated with types of arthritis such as rheumatoid or juvenile arthritis and osteoarthritis. It commonly is used for other problems such as menstrual cramps, fevers and headaches. It is administered as a pill, capsule and liquid. All serious side effects of ibuprofen should be reported to your doctor immediately.
Abdominal Side Effects
Whether you are taking OTC ibuprofen or higher doses prescribed by your physician, you may experience some serious side effects in your abdomen. For example, you may get pain in your abdomen when you take it. You also may feel you have a sour or acidic stomach. The drug may make you belch or cause bloating. Indigestion and heartburn are possible when taking ibuprofen, as is an excess of gas in your intestines and stomach. You may get flatulence and pass gas. There also is the potential for nausea and vomiting when taking the drug. Diarrhea or loose stools are possible, too, or its opposite, constipation. The drug may also cause you to gain weight.
Breathing Side Effects
In some people, common serious side effects of ibuprofen can affect how they breathe. For example, you may develop a rattling noise when you breathe or otherwise breathe loudly. You may find you are short of breath, even at rest. Other breathing difficulties may occur at rest or when you exert yourself in work, exercise or other activities.
Skin Side Effects
Taking ibuprofen can also cause some serious common side effects on your skin. Your skin may itch, for example, or it may have a pale look to it. You also may develop a rash on your skin that is marked by either raised, small lesions or flat lesions. Your skin may swell, too, on various parts of your body such as your ankles, legs, feet, hands, fingers or face.
Hearing Side Effects
Although they are not serious and should recede after you take ibuprofen for a while, some common side effects can affect your hearing. A temporary loss of hearing is possible, as well as noises that are unexplained in your ears such as continual buzzing and ringing. Tell your doctor about these if they bother you or they continue.
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