Can Ibuprofen Damage Your Liver? We Help You Interpret Liver Warnings

Can ibuprofen damage your liver? Typically, this was seen as a rare occurrence. However, recent research studies reveal that it may be more common than initially thought.

While the liver has a remarkable ability to repair itself, over time, consistent liver damage can become irreversible.

We created our Center for Liver Disease as part of our Centers for Excellence to help our patients navigate treatment and help for common liver diseases, including drug-induced liver injury. We realize that liver warnings on medications can often be confusing, so we want to review some basic principles you should follow to help ensure your liver health. 

But first, we’ll answer ‘can ibuprofen damage your liver?’ and other frequently asked questions we receive about liver health.

How Does Ibuprofen Impact Liver Health?

This can be best understood by examining a groundbreaking research study by the University of California – Davis. 

The liver is responsible for clearing the body of toxins and excreting bile that helps carry waste products from the liver. In fact, there are more than 500 vital functions that the liver performs. 

When exposing laboratory mice to a moderate amount of ibuprofen for a week, it affected around 34 different bodily processes. It also had a strong impact on how well cells produce certain chemicals, including those that can be harmful and affect liver health.

Researchers believe this could indicate that ibuprofen may cause more harm than it was initially believed. 

What Are the Signs of Liver Damage Caused by Taking Ibuprofen?

If you’re showing any of the following symptoms, you should get medical care immediately:

• Jaundice (which is the yellowing of your skin and whites of your eyes)
• Upper right abdominal pain
• Fatigue
• Itching
• Nausea
• Loss of appetite
• Rash
• Fever
• Weight loss
• Dark urine (typically the color of tea)
• Vomiting

How to Minimize Liver Damage Risk While Taking Ibuprofen

First, it’s vital to speak with us about any medications you’re taking, whether they are prescription or over-the-counter. This way we can provide any additional precautions and help ensure there are no interactions with any medications. We’ll also evaluate how these substances can affect your liver. 

Remember:

• Take medications as directed
• Don’t exceed the recommended amount (even if you don’t feel better) 
• Don’t mix alcohol with ibuprofen
• Don’t take herbal remedies with ibuprofen without speaking to us first

If you have liver disease or liver issues, please make sure your primary care provider is aware of your condition. Please also inform any additional specialists you visit. This will enable them to provide accurate and timely advice for safely using ibuprofen.

Are There Safe Alternatives for Ibuprofen?

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is a safe alternative for ibuprofen, but it is not without its risks either. Exceeding the recommended dosage can lead to extensive, serious liver problems. If you drink alcohol regularly, this can increase your risk. 

At RMG Gastroenterology, We’ll Give You Clarity and Guidance in Managing Medicines

When you’re concerned about your liver, reading warning labels and dosage instructions are of paramount importance. Studies have shown that even ibuprofen in certain amounts can cause liver damage. The more extensive the damage is to your liver, the more difficult it is to treat, placing you at risk of developing cirrhosis or another serious liver disease.

Our dedication to the Raleigh and Triangle communities led us to create Centers of Excellence to better serve the area. These centers include a Center for Liver Diseases where we treat those with liver problems ranging from fatty liver disease to hepatitis to cirrhosis. 

Do you have questions about your liver health? We invite you to contact us for an appointment.