Can I take Bisoprolol and Ibuprofen together?

Why this happens

Bisoprolol works by blocking certain receptors to lower blood pressure and heart rate. Ibuprofen blocks substances called prostaglandins. These prostaglandins normally help keep your blood vessels open and your kidneys working well. When ibuprofen blocks them, your blood vessels can tighten (raising blood pressure) and your kidneys may struggle to filter fluid and salt out of your body.

What you should do

If you only need a single dose of ibuprofen, it is usually fine, but you should avoid taking it regularly. If you need pain relief, paracetamol is a safer choice as it does not affect blood pressure. If you must take ibuprofen, monitor your blood pressure more frequently and watch for signs of fluid retention, such as swollen ankles or sudden weight gain. Speak to your GP or pharmacist before starting a course of anti-inflammatory painkillers.

Important precautions

Asthma or COPD

Bisoprolol can cause severe breathing difficulties or trigger a life-threatening asthma attack by narrowing the airways. Use with extreme caution or avoid if you have a history of wheezing.

Stomach ulcers or Gastritis

Ibuprofen significantly increases the risk of stomach bleeding and perforation. Do not take this medicine if you have an active ulcer or a history of bleeding caused by NSAIDs.

Pregnancy (Third Trimester)

Do not take ibuprofen if you are more than 28 weeks pregnant. It can cause serious heart and kidney problems in the unborn baby and may lead to complications during delivery.

Food and drink warnings

Alcohol

Drinking alcohol can increase the blood-pressure-lowering effect of bisoprolol, which may make you feel dizzy or lightheaded. For ibuprofen, alcohol can increase the risk of stomach irritation or bleeding. It is best to keep alcohol intake to a minimum.

Caffeine (Coffee, Tea, Energy Drinks)

Caffeine can increase your heart rate and blood pressure, which may counteract the effects of bisoprolol. While small amounts are usually fine, avoid excessive consumption.

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.