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Drug interactions

Cimetidine + Ibuprofen

Severity: Minor

Cimetidine and Ibuprofen: minor interaction.

Last updated

For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.

Summary

Cimetidine may marginally raise ibuprofen exposure, but no meaningful clinical effect has been demonstrated.

What this interaction means in plain words

Cimetidine and Ibuprofen have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.

Cimetidine belongs to Gastrointestinal Tract; Ibuprofen belongs to Musculoskeletal.

Evidence level: Low

Why it happens

Cimetidine weakly inhibits CYP2C9, a pathway for ibuprofen metabolism.

What to do

No adjustment is needed; use the lowest effective ibuprofen dose.

What to ask your pharmacist

  • Is there anything I should notice while taking both?
  • Do I need to tell my doctor at the next visit?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Cimetidine with Ibuprofen?

MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Cimetidine and Ibuprofen have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Cimetidine may marginally raise ibuprofen exposure, but no meaningful clinical effect has been demonstrated.

How serious is the interaction between Cimetidine and Ibuprofen?

MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: No adjustment is needed; use the lowest effective ibuprofen dose.

What other medicines interact with Cimetidine?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Cimetidine with, for example, Dofetilide, Fezolinetant, Alfentanil. The full list is on the Cimetidine page.

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