What to know if you are allergic to NSAIDs

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs include medicines such as ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac and aspirin. A reaction to one drug does not by itself establish which other pain medicines you can safely use.

Hives, swelling, wheezing, breathlessness or a sudden widespread rash soon after a dose can indicate hypersensitivity. Stomach discomfort, heartburn or nausea are recognised adverse effects but do not necessarily represent an allergy. The distinction matters because some reactions occur across several NSAIDs, while others relate to one particular medicine.

Record the product name, dose, time taken, symptoms and how quickly they developed. Include non-prescription cold, flu and pain products because they may contain an NSAID under a brand name.

Tell your doctor, dentist and pharmacist about the reaction before accepting a new medicine. Check the active ingredients rather than relying on the package name, and do not test a suspected drug at home. A clinician can review the history, decide whether specialist allergy assessment is appropriate and recommend an alternative suited to your health conditions and other medicines.

For musculoskeletal pain, the plan may also use activity adjustment, ice or heat when appropriate, and physiotherapy. The underlying problem—such as gout or knee osteoarthritis—helps determine which non-drug measures are useful.

Call emergency services immediately for trouble breathing, throat tightness, faintness, confusion, rapidly increasing swelling of the lips or tongue, or a severe widespread skin reaction. Do not drive yourself if breathing or alertness is affected.

Seek prompt medical advice for new hives, facial swelling, wheezing or a spreading rash after an NSAID, even if symptoms seem to be settling. Bring the packet or a photo of its ingredient label when this can be done safely.

Ask whether your symptoms fit allergy, cross-reactive hypersensitivity or a non-allergic side effect; which exact ingredients to avoid; whether aspirin is included; what to use for fever or pain; and whether you need an allergy referral or written emergency plan.