Can you take Advil with lisinopril?
No, it's generally not recommended to take Advil (ibuprofen) with lisinopril. Ibuprofen, an NSAID, can reduce lisinopril's blood pressure-lowering effect by interfering with how the kidneys respond to the drug. Both also raise the risk of kidney damage, especially in people with existing kidney issues, dehydration, or older age.[1][2]
What happens if you combine them?
Short-term use might not cause problems for healthy people, but regular or high-dose ibuprofen can blunt lisinopril's effectiveness and increase acute kidney injury risk by up to 80% in some studies. Symptoms of issues include swelling, reduced urine output, fatigue, or elevated blood pressure.[1][3]
Why does this interaction occur?
Lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor that relaxes blood vessels partly through kidney mechanisms. Ibuprofen inhibits prostaglandins that help maintain kidney blood flow and support renin release, countering lisinopril's action. This is a pharmacodynamic interaction, not just metabolism-based.[2][4]
What are safer alternatives to Advil?
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol): Preferred for pain or fever with lisinopril; no significant interaction at standard doses.[1][2]
- Low-dose aspirin: Often okay for heart protection (e.g., 81 mg), but check with a doctor as higher doses act like NSAIDs.[3]
Avoid other NSAIDs like naproxen or diclofenac.
When is it okay or what precautions?
Occasional low-dose Advil (e.g., 200 mg) may be tolerable under doctor supervision, with monitoring of blood pressure and kidney function (e.g., creatinine tests). Factors raising risk: age over 65, diabetes, heart failure, or diuretics.[1][4] Always consult a pharmacist or physician first.
What do doctors and guidelines say?
The FDA and American Heart Association warn against routine NSAID use with ACE inhibitors like lisinopril due to cardiovascular and renal risks. Label for lisinopril lists NSAIDs as a precaution.[2][5]
[1]: FDA Lisinopril Label
[2]: Drugs.com Interaction Checker: Ibuprofen + Lisinopril
[3]: Mayo Clinic: ACE Inhibitors and NSAIDs
[4]: UpToDate: NSAID-ACE Inhibitor Interactions
[5]: AHA Guidelines on NSAIDs