Can I take Gabapentin and Ibuprofen together?

Why this happens

Gabapentin and ibuprofen work in different ways and are processed by different organs in the body. Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces pain and inflammation, while gabapentin targets nerve signals. They do not interfere with each other's absorption or metabolism.

What you should do

You can take these medicines together if both have been recommended for you. However, both can occasionally cause side effects like dizziness or drowsiness. If you feel particularly sleepy or unsteady when taking them together, avoid driving or using tools and speak to your pharmacist or doctor. Always take ibuprofen with food to protect your stomach.

Important precautions

Breathing problems or opioid use

Gabapentin can cause serious, life-threatening breathing difficulties, especially if you already have lung disease or if you take it alongside opioid pain relief (such as morphine or codeine).

Mental health disorders

A small number of people treated with gabapentin have had thoughts of harming or killing themselves. You must seek immediate medical help if you notice any changes in your mood or suicidal thoughts.

Abrupt discontinuation

Do not stop taking gabapentin suddenly. Doing so can cause serious side effects, including an increase in seizure frequency or severe withdrawal symptoms. Your dose must be reduced gradually.

Stomach ulcers or kidney disease

Avoid ibuprofen if you have a history of stomach ulcers or kidney problems, as it can cause serious internal bleeding or sudden kidney failure.

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.

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.

Food and drink warnings

Alcohol

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol while taking gabapentin. Combining alcohol with gabapentin can significantly increase the risk of severe drowsiness, dizziness, and breathing difficulties. It may also impair your coordination and judgment more than usual.

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.

Food (General)

You should always take ibuprofen with food or a glass of milk. This helps to p

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.