Heartburn after Advil: what it may mean

Ibuprofen is an anti-inflammatory pain medicine. It can affect the stomach's protective lining and may cause indigestion, burning or nausea; in some people it can aggravate acid reflux. Heartburn after a dose does not by itself prove an ulcer, but repeated symptoms may need review for gastritis, peptic ulcer or another cause. Risk can be higher with a history of digestive problems, heavy alcohol use, or use of other anti-inflammatory medicines.

Do not take more ibuprofen than the label or prescriber directs, and do not combine it with another anti-inflammatory painkiller unless a clinician has advised this. Take it with water and food if your clinician says you should continue it. Ask a pharmacist or doctor whether another pain-relief option is appropriate and whether acid reflux medication could help. Do not stop a prescribed medicine without checking first. Avoid alcohol while the stomach is irritated and keep a record of the dose and timing of symptoms.

Seek urgent care for vomiting blood, coffee-ground vomit, black or bloody stools, severe stomach pain, faintness, unusual weakness or trouble breathing. Arrange prompt medical advice if burning persists after stopping non-prescribed ibuprofen, keeps recurring, or is accompanied by difficulty swallowing or unplanned weight loss. Chest pain with sweating or breathlessness needs emergency assessment rather than self-treatment for heartburn.

Ask whether ibuprofen is suitable with your medical history, what pain-relief alternative may fit, and whether you need assessment for gastritis, ulcer disease or acid reflux.