Can I take Aspirin and Ibuprofen together?
Drug interaction guide
Originally published 24 Jan 2026
Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines
- DownloadDownload
- Share
- Language
- Discussion
Taking ibuprofen and aspirin together can increase your risk of developing stomach ulcers or internal bleeding. Additionally, if you take aspirin to protect your heart or prevent a stroke, ibuprofen can block aspirin from working properly, potentially leaving your heart unprotected.
In this article:
Continue reading below
Why this happens
Both drugs belong to the same family (NSAIDs). When used together, they have an 'additive' effect on the stomach lining, making damage more likely. Furthermore, ibuprofen physically blocks the spot on your blood cells (platelets) where aspirin needs to attach to thin the blood.
What you should do
Avoid taking ibuprofen if you are on a daily low-dose aspirin regimen for heart health. If you must take both, take the aspirin first and wait at least 30 minutes to 2 hours before taking ibuprofen. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for safer pain relief alternatives, such as paracetamol.
Continue reading below
Important precautions
Asthma
Do not take these medicines if you have asthma that is worsened by aspirin or other NSAIDs, as they can trigger a life-threatening asthma attack.
Stomach ulcers or bleeding
Avoid these medicines if you have a history of stomach ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding, as they significantly increase the risk of serious internal bleeding and perforation.
Pregnancy (third trimester)
Do not take these medicines during the last 3 months of pregnancy (third trimester) as they can cause serious heart and kidney problems in the unborn baby and complications during delivery.
Food and drink warnings
Alcohol
Drinking alcohol while taking aspirin or ibuprofen increases the risk of irritation to your stomach lining and may lead to stomach bleeding or ulcers. It is best to limit alcohol intake or avoid it altogether while taking these medicines.
Continue reading below
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.
Patient picks for Drug interactions
Treatment and medication
Can I take Metformin and Ibuprofen together?
Taking ibuprofen while on metformin can increase the risk of kidney problems and a rare but serious condition called lactic acidosis. Ibuprofen can also make metformin stay in your body longer, potentially increasing its side effects.
Treatment and medication
Can I take Certican and Matcha together?
Drinking matcha tea while taking Certican (everolimus) may increase the levels of the medication in your bloodstream. This could lead to an increased risk of side effects, such as mouth ulcers, infections, or kidney problems.
Continue reading below
Article history
The information on this page is written and peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
24 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Ask, share, connect.
Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.
Feeling unwell?
Assess your symptoms online for free
Sign up to the Patient newsletter
Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.
By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.