Drug interactions
Ibuprofen + Willow bark
Severity: Minor
Ibuprofen and Willow bark: 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
Willow bark contains salicin, which is converted to salicylates, so combining it with ibuprofen may add to NSAID-type effects such as gastrointestinal irritation and bleeding tendency. The extent depends on the product's salicin content and is usually small.
What this interaction means in plain words
Ibuprofen and Willow bark have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Why it happens
Additive pharmacodynamic effects of salicylate-type compounds with an NSAID on prostaglandin inhibition.
What to do
Avoid using willow bark products together with regular ibuprofen; monitor for gastrointestinal bleeding symptoms if both are taken.
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
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Ibuprofen with Willow bark?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Ibuprofen and Willow bark have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Willow bark contains salicin, which is converted to salicylates, so combining it with ibuprofen may add to NSAID-type effects such as gastrointestinal irritation and bleeding tendency. The extent depends on the product's salicin content and is usually small.
How serious is the interaction between Ibuprofen and Willow bark?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid using willow bark products together with regular ibuprofen; monitor for gastrointestinal bleeding symptoms if both are taken.
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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