Can I Take prednisone with ibuprofen?

SUMMARY:

Taking prednisone (a systemic corticosteroid) together with ibuprofen (an NSAID) increases the risk of gastrointestinal irritation, ulcers, and bleeding; caution is advised, particularly with higher doses, prolonged use, older age, or concurrent blood thinners.

ADDITIONAL NOTES:

Interaction: additive risk for GI mucosal injury and bleeding. Mechanism: both drugs reduce GI protection (NSAID via prostaglandin inhibition; corticosteroids may impair mucosal healing and can mask symptoms). Increased risk factors: older age, history of peptic ulcer or GI bleeding, high doses, prolonged therapy, alcohol use, or concurrent anticoagulant/antiplatelet therapy. Watch for: new or worsening abdominal pain, black/tarry stools, vomiting blood, lightheadedness, or unexplained anemia. Mitigation: use lowest effective doses and shortest durations, consider gastroprotection (proton-pump inhibitor or H2 blocker) if long-term combined use is necessary, and review all other medications with a prescriber or pharmacist.