Advil, also known as ibuprofen, is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly used to treat pain, inflammation, and fever. Antidepressants, on the other hand, are medications used to manage depression and anxiety disorders. While both types of drugs are widely used and generally safe, their interactions can be risky.
According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), mixing Advil with antidepressants can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, ulcers, and kidney damage [2]. This is because both types of drugs can affect the stomach lining and kidney function.
Furthermore, the NHS UK states that some antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can increase the levels of ibuprofen in the blood, which can lead to toxicity and side effects [3]. This is because SSRIs can inhibit the enzyme that metabolizes ibuprofen, leading to its accumulation in the body.
Therefore, it is essential to inform healthcare providers about all medications, including over-the-counter drugs like Advil, before starting antidepressants or any other new medication. Healthcare providers can then adjust the dosages or recommend alternative treatments to minimize the risk of interactions [1][2][3].
In summary, Advil interactions with antidepressants can be risky due to the increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, ulcers, kidney damage, and toxicity. It is crucial to inform healthcare providers about all medications before starting new treatments to minimize the risk of interactions.
Sources:
[1] DrugPatentWatch. (n.d.). Advil. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/ADVIL>
[2] National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (n.d.). Alcohol-Medication Interactions: Potentially Dangerous Mixes. Retrieved from <https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/health-professionals-communities/core-resource-on-alcohol/alcohol-medication-interactions-potentially-dangerous-mixes>
[3] NHS UK. (2021). SSRI antidepressants. Retrieved from <https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/talking-therapies-medicine-treatments/medicines-and-psychiatry/ssri-antidepressants/considerations/>