Advil, also known as ibuprofen, is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve pain and reduce fever [1]. According to a study cited in an NPR article [2], NSAIDs such as Advil can potentially decrease the effectiveness of antidepressants by interfering with the way the medication is metabolized in the liver. This can result in lower levels of the antidepressant in the bloodstream, which may reduce its effectiveness. The study found that the combination of an NSAID and an antidepressant increased the risk of relapse in patients with depression.

Another potential side effect of Advil is excessive sweating [3]. While this is not directly related to the effectiveness of antidepressants, it may be a concern for individuals taking both medications. Excessive sweating can be a symptom of serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition that can occur when there is too much serotonin in the body. Antidepressants work by increasing levels of serotonin in the brain, so combining them with Advil may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome.

In summary, Advil may potentially decrease the effectiveness of antidepressants by interfering with their metabolism in the liver. Additionally, the combination of Advil and antidepressants may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome. Patients should talk to their healthcare provider before taking Advil or any other medication with their antidepressant to ensure they are safe and effective together.

Sources:
[1] DrugPatentWatch. (n.d.). Advil. Retrieved from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/ADVIL
[2] Hamilton, J. (2011, April 25). Popular Painkillers Can Impair Antidepressants' Effectiveness. NPR. Retrieved from https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2011/04/25/135715226/popular-painkillers-can-impair-antidepressants-effectiveness
[3] GoodRx. (n.d.). Medications that can cause excessive sweating as a side effect. Retrieved from https://www.goodrx.com/drugs/side-effects/medications-cause-excessive-sweating-side-effect