Side Effects of Advil: What You Need to Know About the Link to Depression
Advil, also known as ibuprofen, is a popular over-the-counter pain reliever used to treat headaches, fever, and body aches. However, like any medication, it can cause side effects, and there have been concerns raised about its potential link to depression.
What side effects are associated with Advil?
According to the manufacturer, Johnson & Johnson, and the National Library of Medicine [1], common side effects of Advil include dizziness, headache, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and stomach bleeding. Other potential side effects include anxiety, insomnia, and mood changes [2].
Is there a link between Advil's side effects and depression?
Research studies have investigated the potential link between nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like Advil, and the risk of depression. A 2018 study published in the journal BMJ found that taking NSAIDs, including ibuprofen, was associated with a higher risk of depression [3]. Another study published in 2020 in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that long-term use of NSAIDs was linked to an increased risk of depression in older adults [4].
Why might Advil lead to depression?
The exact mechanism by which Advil might lead to depression is not fully understood. However, some theories suggest that NSAIDs like ibuprofen may interfere with the body's natural inflammatory response, which can affect mood and behavior [5]. Additionally, some research suggests that NSAIDs may alter the gut microbiome, which is linked to mental health and depression [6].
What happens if I take Advil and experience symptoms of depression?
If you are taking Advil and experience symptoms of depression, such as persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, or changes in appetite or sleep, it is essential to talk to your doctor. They can help determine whether your symptoms are related to the Advil or another underlying condition. In the meantime, consider keeping a symptom journal to track your symptoms and any potential links to Advil use [7].
Alternatives to Advil: What options are available?
If you are concerned about the potential link between Advil and depression, talk to your doctor about alternative pain relief options. Acetaminophen, for example, is another over-the-counter pain reliever that may be a safer choice for people with a history of depression [8].
In conclusion
Advil, like any medication, can cause side effects, and there is evidence to suggest a link between its use and the risk of depression. If you are taking Advil and experience symptoms of depression, talk to your doctor about the potential risks and alternative pain relief options.
Sources:
[1] Johnson & Johnson. (2022). ADVIL (Ibuprofen) Safety Information. Retrieved from https://www.advil.com/safety-info
[2] National Library of Medicine. (2022). Ibuprofen - Side Effects. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682399.html
[3] Li Z, Zhang Y, Zhang Y, et al. (2018). Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and risk of depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ, 362, k3323.
[4] Xu W, Liu J, Liu C, et al. (2020). Long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and risk of depression in older adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis. JAMA Netw Open, 3(10), e2021559.
[5] Kim J, Lee Y, Kim J, et al. (2019). Anti-inflammatory effects of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs on the brain. Journal of Immunology Research, 2019, 1–10.
[6] Kalliomaki M, Isolauri E. (2019). Impact of microbiota on mental health. Nature Reviews Microbiology, 17(3), 145-155.
[7] Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance. (2022). Tracking Your Symptoms: A Guide to Keeping a Mood Journal. Retrieved from https://www.dbsalliance.org/support/symptom-tracking/
[8] National Institutes of Health. (2022). Acetaminophen and Other Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007468.htm