Drug interactions
Diflunisal + Ibuprofen
Severity: Major
Diflunisal and Ibuprofen: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: US FDA label
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
Taking two NSAIDs together gives no added analgesic benefit but increases the risk of gastrointestinal ulceration, bleeding and renal injury. Cardiovascular and fluid retention effects are also additive.
What this interaction means in plain words
Diflunisal and Ibuprofen can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.
Diflunisal belongs to Musculoskeletal; Ibuprofen belongs to Musculoskeletal.
Why it happens
Duplicate cyclooxygenase inhibition leading to additive prostaglandin suppression in gastric mucosa, platelets and kidney.
What to do
Avoid concurrent use of two systemic NSAIDs; choose a single agent at the lowest effective dose.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
- Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
- What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?
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References
Other interactions of Diflunisal
- Diflunisal + Ketorolac Contraindicated
- Diflunisal + Ketorolac intranasal Contraindicated
- Acemetacin + Diflunisal Major
- Acetazolamide + Diflunisal Major
- Alteplase + Diflunisal Major
- Amiloride + Diflunisal Major
Other interactions of Ibuprofen
- Ibuprofen + Ketorolac Contraindicated
- Ibuprofen + Ketorolac intranasal Contraindicated
- Acemetacin + Ibuprofen Major
- Alteplase + Ibuprofen Major
- Amiloride + Ibuprofen Major
- Apixaban + Ibuprofen Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Diflunisal with Ibuprofen?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Diflunisal and Ibuprofen can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Taking two NSAIDs together gives no added analgesic benefit but increases the risk of gastrointestinal ulceration, bleeding and renal injury. Cardiovascular and fluid retention effects are also additive.
How serious is the interaction between Diflunisal and Ibuprofen?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid concurrent use of two systemic NSAIDs; choose a single agent at the lowest effective dose.
What other medicines interact with Diflunisal?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Diflunisal with, for example, Ketorolac, Ketorolac intranasal, Acemetacin. The full list is on the Diflunisal page.
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