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The NHS has issued a warning to those on certain medications about the potential hazards of combining these with commonly used painkillers. It is advised to consult a GP before taking
paracetamol or ibuprofen if you're affected, as stated by the health organisation. A significant number of people turn to readily accessible over-the-counter painkillers for everyday
illnesses. Paracetamol is frequently the go-to choice for symptoms like headaches, backaches, and symptoms of the common cold. Similarly, ibuprofen is widely used in the UK to address
various discomforts including backache, menstrual cramps, dental pain, and symptoms associated with colds, flu, or COVID-19. Although these medications are safe when used according to
package guidelines, they are not without their caveats. The NHS website clarifies that some other medications must not be combined with paracetamol and ibuprofen. PARACETAMOL Regarding
paracetamol, the NHS mentioned it's "not suitable" for everyone, citing people who regularly consume warfarin, an anticoagulant, as an example. Those concerned should discuss
their options with a medical professional, advises the NHS, further noting: "Paracetamol can increase the risk of bleeding if you take it [warfarin] regularly." Nonetheless, intake
of low-dose paracetamol along with warfarin is deemed safe. The NHS said: "It's safe to take paracetamol while you're on warfarin. But take the lowest dose that controls your
pain. "Taking more than four 500mg tablets over 24 hours for longer than a few days may make your blood clot more slowly. This puts you at risk of bleeding." Additionally, it can
be hazardous to consume the analgesic alongside other medicines that include paracetamol such as co-codamol or certain cold and flu remedies due to the possibility of an overdose. However,
ibuprofen, aspirin, and codeine are alternative pain relievers that do not contain paracetamol and are safe to use concurrently. The NHS advises consulting with your GP before taking
paracetamol if you're receiving treatment for epilepsy or tuberculosis (TB), as this could pose additional risks. IBUPROFEN The NHS website cautions: "Ibuprofen does not mix well
with some medicines." The health service recommends avoiding ibuprofen in conjunction with other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These NSAIDs include aspirin, diclofenac,
celecoxib, and naproxen; using them together might heighten the likelihood of adverse effects like stomach bleeding or kidney issues. "NSAIDs are also found in over-the-counter
medications from pharmacies, such as cough and cold treatments," according to the NHS. "Before taking any other medicines, check the label to see if they contain aspirin, ibuprofen
or other NSAIDs." To ensure your safety, always inform your doctor if you're taking any of the following medicines before starting any form of ibuprofen: * Steroid medicines such
as betamethasone, dexamethasone, hydrocortisone or prednisolone * Medicines that help to prevent blood clots, such as warfarin * Medicines for high blood pressure * Antidepressants such as
citalopram, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, venlafaxine, paroxetine or sertraline * Diabetes medicines such as gliclazide, glimepiride, glipizide or tolbutamide * Antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin,
levofloxacin, moxifloxacin, norfloxacin or ofloxacin You should also avoid taking ibuprofen with gingko biloba supplements as it can “increase the chance of bleeding”. The NHS added that
you should see a doctor as soon as possible or call 111 if you have been taking ibuprofen and you experience: * Black poo or blood in your vomit – these can be signs of bleeding in your
stomach * Swollen ankles, blood in your pee or not peeing at all – these can be signs of a kidney problem