Can I take Ibuprofen and Ropinirole together?

Why this happens

Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works by inhibiting enzymes (COX-1 and COX-2), which can affect the stomach lining and kidney blood flow. Ropinirole is a dopamine agonist used for Parkinson's disease or Restless Legs Syndrome. They are processed by different pathways in the liver and do not directly interfere with how the other is absorbed or cleared from the body.

What you should do

It is generally fine to take these two medicines together. To protect your stomach, always take ibuprofen with food or a glass of milk. If you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or nauseous when taking both, speak to your pharmacist or doctor. If you have pre-existing kidney problems or high blood pressure, consult your doctor before using ibuprofen regularly.

Important precautions

Asthma

Do not take ibuprofen if you have asthma, as it can cause a life-threatening worsening of your breathing or a severe allergic reaction.

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.

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.

Sudden onset of sleep

Ropinirole can cause you to fall asleep suddenly without any prior warning or feeling drowsy. You must not drive or operate machinery if you experience this, and you should be cautious when performing activities where falling asleep could put you at risk.

Impulse control disorders

Ropinirole can cause changes in your behaviour that lead to strong impulses, such as an unusual urge to gamble, increased sexual drive, or excessive eating and spending. Contact your doctor immediately if you or your family notice these behaviours developing.

Low blood pressure (Hypotension)

Ropinirole can cause your blood pressure to drop, especially when standing up quickly, which may lead to dizziness or fainting. Move slowly when changing positions.

Food and drink warnings

Alcohol

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.

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol while taking ropinirole. Both alcohol and ropinirole can cause drowsiness and dizziness; combining them increases these effects and may lead to sudden onset of sleep or fainting. There is also an increased risk of liver strain when mixing alcohol with medication.

Food (General)

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

High-fat meals

Taking ropinirole with a very high-fat meal may increase the amount of the drug absorbed into your bloodstream and change how quickly it works. While you can take it with or without food, it is best to be consistent in how you take it (e.g., always with a meal or always on an empty stomach) to keep your symptoms stable.

Caffeine (Coffee, Tea, Energy Drinks)

Ropinirole can increase the effects of caffeine in your body. This may lead to feeling jittery, anxious, or having a racing heart. If you notice these symptoms, you should reduce your caffeine intake.

Using other medicines

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.