Ibuprofen and Alcohol/Food Interactions

Ask your doctor before using ibuprofen together with ethanol (alcohol). Do not drink alcohol while taking ibuprofen. Alcohol can increase your risk of stomach bleeding caused by ibuprofen. Call your doctor at once if you have symptoms of bleeding in your stomach or intestines. This includes black, bloody, or tarry stools, or coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

NSAIDs - fluid retention

Fluid retention and edema have been reported in association with the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including some topical formulations. NSAIDs (including topicals) can lead to new onset of hypertension or worsening of preexisting hypertension, either of which can contribute to the increased incidence of cardiovascular events. NSAIDs should be used with caution in patients with preexisting fluid retention, hypertension, or history of heart failure. NSAIDs should be avoided in patients with severe heart failure unless the benefits are expected to outweigh the risk of worsening heart failure; if an NSAID is used in such patients, they should be monitored for signs of worsening heart failure. Blood pressure and cardiovascular status should be monitored closely during the initiation of NSAID treatment and throughout the course of therapy.