Can Ibuprofen Cause Liver Damage?

Posted on Thu, 18 Jan 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 18 Jan 2018 Answered on

Fri, 20 Jul 2018 Last reviewed on

Question : I was taking ibuprofen for about 10 years. It was being prescribed to me mainly for lumbar spine. My new primary care doctor took me off it, even though I have documented right shoulder, neck, lower back, and knee issues. My questions are:

After taking ibuprofen for a long period is still effective or helpful for treating pain, and etc...?

Could it be harmful to the liver over a extended period of time?

While be treated at another clinic, a doctor made the statement," I'm surprised after taking ibuprofen for so long, I'm surprised your stomach is not messed up." Can ibuprofen be harmful to your stomach over period of time?

I'm sure my primary care doctor is acting in my best interest and I trust my primary care doctor, but I still have pain (it's not chronic). The total/ complete reason why I was taking off of it was not explained to me.

Basically, my question is can ibuprofen damage your liver, stomach, and lose it's effectiveness over an extended period of time. And since I was taking off of it, I shouldn't purchase over the counter pain relievers?

That was my last question, thanks.

Answered by Dr. Nishad BN (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Taking ibuprofen for long term is not recommended.

Detailed Answer:
Hi Sir

Thank you for asking HCM

I have gone through your query with diligence. Taking ibuprofen for long term is not recommended. It can damage kidneys and stomach. Do renal function test to rule out any kidney damage.
If you have chronic pain then i would suggest narcotic pain relievers like tramadol. If that is not helping then morphine.
Physiotherapy should be considered before taking narcotic pain relievers.
Avoid over the counter pain relievers also.

Let me know if anything not clear.
I am happy to help you.
Thanks.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng

Follow up: Dr. Nishad BN (36 minutes later)

Hello Dr. XXXXXXX

Thanks for your response. You didn't comment on if it affects the liver. Can it also affect the liver. I will request the renal function test.

Thanks again

Answered by Dr. Nishad BN (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Ibuprofen doesn't gives any liver problems.

Detailed Answer:
Welcome again.

Thank you for your follow up query.

Ibuprofen doesn't gives any liver problems. It is even safe in liver disease if there is no coagulation problems. So no need to worry about liver.

Thanks.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana