Taking ibuprofen could WORSEN the symptoms of agonising diseases – and cause holes in your gut. Using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can mess up the balance of your gut microbiota, researchers at Semmelweis University have said.
“We have long known that excessive use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can disrupt the balance of the gut microbiota,” Dr Zoltán Zádori, leader of the Gastrointestinal Research Group at the Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy at Semmelweis University, explained.
“We are now looking for the underlying mechanisms, which are only partially understood.” On the NHS website, it says: “If you still need ibuprofen after taking it for 10 days (or for 3 days if you’re under 18) check with your doctor before continuing.”
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NSAIDs are among the world’s most used medications, with over 30 million people taking them daily, according to the Hungarian researchers. The NHS goes on to say: “It’s safe to take ibuprofen regularly for many years if your doctor prescribes it, and as long as you do not take more than the recommended dose.” The usual dose for adults is one or two 200mg tablets or capsules 3 times a day. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe a higher dose of up to 600mg to take 4 times a day if needed.
“We found that these bacterial deviations are similar to those caused by NSAIDs,” the study author explained. “This raises the possibility that drug-induced gut dysbiosis could worsen the underlying diseases and limit the therapeutic effect of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in the long run.”
Dr Zádori explained, we currently assume that the NSAID-induced dysbiosis is behind things like “inflammation of the intestinal mucosa, changes in the pH or motor activity of the intestines, or changes in the bile acid composition”. He said: “It’s also possible that the NSAIDs’ antibacterial properties directly disrupt the balance of the gut microbiota.
“These processes are closely linked, so it’s difficult to determine which caused which. For example, reduced bile function can lead to an overgrowth of intestinal bacteria. At the same time, dysbiosis can also change the quantity of certain bile acids.”
Sarah Carter is a health and wellness expert residing in the UK. With a background in healthcare, she offers evidence-based advice on fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being, promoting healthier living for readers.
