Can I take Ramipril and Ibuprofen together?

You should avoid taking ramipril and ibuprofen together. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before combining them.

When taking ramipril you should:

• Avoid taking ibuprofen.

• Take paracetamol if pain relief is needed.

• If you must take ibuprofen, use the lowest dose for the shortest time possible and speak to your GP.

Why this happens

Ramipril works by relaxing blood vessels and helping the kidneys filter fluid. Ibuprofen blocks natural chemicals called prostaglandins that help keep the blood vessels in the kidneys open.

When both drugs are taken together, the blood flow to the kidneys can drop too low, potentially leading to kidney strain or failure.

Ibuprofen also causes the body to retain salt and water, which opposes the blood-pressure-lowering effect of ramipril.

You may be experiencing an interaction between ramipril and ibuprofen if you have:

• Swelling in your ankles, feet, or hands.

• Unexplained fatigue or weakness.

• Dizziness or lightheadedness.

• Reduced urination or dark-coloured pee.

• Unusual shortness of breath.

These can be signs that your kidneys, blood pressure, or fluid balance are being affected.

If you notice these side effects, you should:

• Stop taking ibuprofen (unless a doctor has specifically told you it’s safe).

• Contact your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

• Monitor your symptoms and seek urgent care if they worsen (e.g., severe swelling, very little urine, or extreme dizziness)

• Do not adjust your ramipril dose on your own.

These steps help prevent serious kidney or heart problems.

Pregnancy

You must not take ramipril if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant as it can cause serious harm to the developing baby, particularly affecting their kidneys.

Pregnancy (third trimester)

Do not take ibuprofen if you are more than 6 months pregnant, as it can cause serious heart and kidney problems in the unborn baby and complications during birth.

Asthma

Do not take ibuprofen if you have asthma that is worsened by aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), as it can trigger a life-threatening asthma attack.

Kidney function

Taking these two medicines together significantly increases the risk of sudden kidney failure. This risk is even higher if you are also taking a 'water tablet' (diuretic).

Stomach ulcers or bleeding

Avoid ibuprofen if you have ever had a stomach ulcer, perforation, or bleeding, as it can cause serious damage to the stomach lining.

Alcohol

Drinking alcohol while taking ramipril can increase the blood pressure-lowering effect of the medicine, which may make you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or faint. It is best to keep alcohol intake to a minimum, especially when you first start taking ramipril or if your dose is increased.

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol while taking ibuprofen. Combining alcohol with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen increases the risk of irritation to your stomach lining and can lead to stomach ulcers or bleeding.

Salt substitutes (Potassium-rich)

Ramipril can increase the levels of potassium in your blood. Using salt substitutes that contain potassium (such as Lo-Salt) can cause your potassium levels to become too high. This can lead to serious heart problems. Check with your pharmacist before using these products.

Food (General)

It is recommended to take ibuprofen with food or a glass of milk to reduce the risk of stomach upset or indigestion.

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.