Does Ibuprofen have aspirin in it? Does it thin the blood?
Ibuprofen is a Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID). It is sold under the brand names Advil® and Motrin®. NSAIDs are to treat pain and inflammation, ibuprofen is also used to treat fever.
Ibuprofen does not have aspirin in it. Aspirin can be used for many of the same symptoms as ibuprofen, but they are different compounds. If you are allergic to aspirin, there is a possibility you could have an allergic reaction to ibuprofen. I would encourage you to speak with your doctor before taking ibuprofen if you’ve had a bad reaction to aspirin.
Ibuprofen is not specifically a blood thinner. Some consider it to “thin the blood” because chronic use of ibuprofen can increase the risk of bleeding ulcers and bleeding in the colon. This effect is caused by changes in the stomach and intestinal lining, not due to a blood thinning effect. In fact, some studies have shown, ibuprofen can reduce the beneficial blood thinning effect of aspirin, putting the person at higher risk of heart attack and stroke.
Very few people encounter problems with ibuprofen when used on a short-term basis. Long-term use however, can increase the risk of stomach or intestinal bleeding, heart attack, high blood pressure, stroke and kidney problems. Please be certain to discuss long-term use of ibuprofen with your doctor. Do not take ibuprofen when pregnant. Always speak to a doctor or pharmacist is you are uncertain about taking ibuprofen.
