Drug interactions
Ibuprofen + Metronidazole
Severity: Minor
Ibuprofen and Metronidazole: 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
Metronidazole has weak CYP2C9 inhibitory activity and may slightly increase ibuprofen exposure. The clinical impact is expected to be small.
What this interaction means in plain words
Ibuprofen and Metronidazole have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Ibuprofen belongs to Musculoskeletal; Metronidazole belongs to Anti Parasitic.
Why it happens
Weak inhibition of CYP2C9-mediated ibuprofen metabolism.
What to do
No dose change is needed. Use usual ibuprofen doses and watch for GI intolerance.
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?
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Other interactions of Ibuprofen
- Ibuprofen + Ketorolac Contraindicated
- Ibuprofen + Ketorolac intranasal Contraindicated
- Acemetacin + Ibuprofen Major
- Alteplase + Ibuprofen Major
- Amiloride + Ibuprofen Major
- Apixaban + Ibuprofen Major
Other interactions of Metronidazole
- Ethanol + Metronidazole Contraindicated
- Metronidazole + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Amiodarone + Metronidazole Major
- Disulfiram + Metronidazole Major
- Ergotamine + Metronidazole Major
- Lomitapide + Metronidazole Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Ibuprofen with Metronidazole?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Ibuprofen and Metronidazole have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Metronidazole has weak CYP2C9 inhibitory activity and may slightly increase ibuprofen exposure. The clinical impact is expected to be small.
How serious is the interaction between Ibuprofen and Metronidazole?
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 dose change is needed. Use usual ibuprofen doses and watch for GI intolerance.
What other medicines interact with Ibuprofen?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Ibuprofen with, for example, Ketorolac, Ketorolac intranasal, Acemetacin. The full list is on the Ibuprofen page.
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