Ibuprofen is an over the counter pain reliever categorized as an NSAID or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug. It is used to treat mild to moderate pain for the relief of everyday or common ailments and diseases like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. The Food and Drug Administration has found it safe for long term use, but some mild side effects have been proven to exist after a year or more of use. If any side effects occur, you should contact a doctor immediately.
Stomach pain
The most common long-term side effect of Ibuprofen is stomach trouble. The degree of pain can vary from mild to moderate. Stomach pain from long term use of Ibuprofen is usually only occasional, meaning from one to four times per week. The pain is in the form of cramping and discomfort. It may also reach the abdominal area and cause a moderate amount of diarrhea. Rarely, long term use of Ibuprofen can result in severe stomach pain, such as ulcers and bleeding.
Headache
Another common side effect of long term use of Ibuprofen is mild headache. It seems to be defeating the purpose to get a headache from Ibuprofen, but this is most often the result of continued use to treat arthritis. Mild to moderate pounding in the head as well as some slight sensitivities to light or noise can occur. The pain may congregate in the frontal lobes or near the back of the neck area.
Skin Rash
A rare side effect of long-term use of Ibuprofen is skin rashes. These can be mild to severe. They can appear anywhere on the body and be small patches or large areas. The skin will appear red, irritated and covered with red bumps or swollen patches. This can be a sign of an allergy as well. If this side effect occurs, a health care professional such as a doctor or pharmacist should be immediately notified.
Dizziness, Drowsiness or Lightheadedness
Long-term use of Ibuprofen often results in dizziness, drowsiness or lightheadedness. This can happen when standing, sitting or lying down. It can happen when driving as well, so before driving, be sure that this is not a symptom you are experiencing. A marked sense of tiredness or lack of energy can occur and a certain sense of dizziness. This symptom is not usually overwhelming but can point to hypertension and high blood pressure so it should be reported.
Insomnia
Trouble falling and staying asleep as well as full blown insomnia can occur as a side effect of long-term Ibuprofen use. This can occur two to five nights a week. Constant insomnia can bring about other problems as well, such as anxiety and panic. This side effect can occur regardless of your sleep schedule. If trouble sleeping or staying asleep occurs, a doctor, pharmacist or other health care professional should be contacted.
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