Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). (1) It is used to help treat pain or inflammation caused by toothache, headache, back pain, minor injuries, menstrual cramps, and arthritis. (2) Ibuprofen can also be used to reduce fever. Ibuprofen can be used on individuals ages 6 months and older, and it can be found over the counter. (3)
Oxycodone is a semi-synthetic opioid that is used to treat chronic pain, pain caused by minor injuries, and pain following surgical procedures. Oxycodone is only legal for medical purposes as stated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. (4) Oxycodone is occasionally referred to as a narcotic. (5) Oxycodone is a substance that plays a major role in the opioid crisis. Oxycodone can lead to individuals experiencing temporary feelings of euphoria and relaxation, which are reasons that contribute to its addictive properties. (6)
If you or someone you know have difficulties controlling ibuprofen or oxycodone use, a substance use disorder may be present. Here at Guardian Recovery, we offer psychoeducation and evidence-based treatment for individuals experiencing alcohol and substance use disorders. With dual diagnosis treatment options for individuals experiencing substance use and mental health disorders simultaneously, you can focus on wellness and recovery in one location. Contact Guardian Recovery today to get started.
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How Should Oxycodone & Ibuprofen Be Taken?
Since both oxycodone and ibuprofen help treat pain, many wonder can you take ibuprofen with oxycodone? Oxycodone and ibuprofen can be taken together if prescribed by a doctor. There is a combination medication of oxycodone and ibuprofen, known as Combunox. (7) Dosages are typically prescribed as 5mg of oxycodone and 400 mg ibuprofen. (8) The combination of oxycodone and ibuprofen is taken orally every 6 hours. (9) A maximum of 4 tablets can be taken within a 24 hour period. (10) The combination of oxycodone and ibuprofen should not be taken for more than a week. (11)
What You Should Discuss With Your Healthcare Provider Prior Taking
Before taking ibuprofen and oxycodone, you should discuss with your doctor if you should take other NSAIDs, such as aspirin. (12) You should also discuss if you take other prescription opioids.
Other important information that you should discuss with your doctor before taking ibuprofen and oxycodone together include: (13)
- Whether or not you you drink alcohol
- Whether or not you take blood thinners
- Whether or not you take ACE inhibitors
- Whether or not you take Lithium
- Whether or not you take Furosemide
- If you have ever had high blood pressure
- If you have ever had stomach bleeding or ulcers
- If you have breathing problems
- If you have ever experienced any head trauma
- If you have ever experienced seizures
Are There Medications That Should Not Be Taken With Opioids?
Due to how oxycodone interacts with the brain and body, there are certain medications that can not be taken with it simultaneously.
Combining opioids with other substances that slow down the central nervous system can increase one’s chances of experiencing an overdose. (14)
Central nervous system depressants include: (15)
- Benzodiazepines
- Alcohol
- Barbiturates
- Xylazine
- Clonazepam (Klonopin)
- Zaleplon (Sonata)
- Zolpidem (Ambien)
- Eszopiclone (Lunesta)
Mixing oxycodone with other opioids can also increase one’s chances of experiencing an overdose.
Other prescription opioids include: (16)
- Hydrocodone (Vicodin)
- Oxymorphone (Opana)
- Morphine (Kadian, Avinza)
- Codeine
- Fentanyl
- Tapentadol
- Hydromorphone
- Methadone
Drug Interactions & Risks
Drug interactions occur when another substance interferes with the effectiveness of a medication. There are 800 medications that may interact with combined ibuprofen and oxycodone. (17) Interactions may be minor, moderate, or major.
Some medications that may cause drug interactions when used in combination with ibuprofen and oxycodone include: (18)
- Other opioids
- Cold or allergy medications
- Medications used for COPD
- Medications used for motion sickness
- Medications used for irritable bowel syndrome
- Medications used for bladder issues
- Sedative medications such as Valium, Xanax, or Klonopin
- Muscle relaxers or sleeping medications
- Medications used to help treat mental health disorders
- Medications used to help treat Parkinson’s disease
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Important Warnings & Facts to Know When Taking the Two Together
Ibuprofen can increase the chances of an individual experiencing a fatal heart attack or stroke. (19) Ibuprofen can also cause stomach or intestinal bleeding. (20) Engaging in hazardous activities or operating a motor vehicle should be avoided when taking ibuprofen and oxycodone together. (21) An individual should not take ibuprofen and oxycodone before or after receiving heart bypass surgery. (22)
Potential Symptoms & Side Effects of Oxycodone & Ibuprofen
All substances produce some sort of side effect, whether they are mild, moderate, or severe.
Common side effects associated with combined oxycodone and ibuprofen use include: (23)
- Drowsiness or dizziness
- Blurry vision
- Stomach pain
- Nausea or vomiting
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
More serious side effects can occur with oxycodone and ibuprofen use. Contact your doctor if you experience more serious side effects.
Serious side effects associated with oxycodone and ibuprofen include: (24)
- Heavy breathing
- Slowing breathing
- Breathing that may stop during sleep
- Weight gain that occurs quickly
- Skin rash
- Pale skin
- Lightheadedness
- Bloody or tarry stools
- Coughing up blood
- Kidney impairments
- Liver impairments
- Mood swings
- Fever
- Hallucinations
Addiction & Overdose Potential of Ibuprofen & Oxycodone
Since the combination of ibuprofen and oxycodone contains an opioid, the lowest dose for the shortest amount of time is often given in order to reduce the risk of addiction. Taking an opioid can lead to addiction even if it is prescribed by a doctor. In 2021, approximately 14.3 million individuals, ages 12 years and older, reported engaging in the misuse of prescription medications within a 12 month period. (25) Approximately 5 million individuals were diagnosed with an opioid use disorder during the same year. (26)
Approximately 16,706 individuals experienced a fatal overdose due to prescription opioid use in 2021. (27) Understanding the signs of an overdose caused by taking ibuprofen and oxycodone together is important in order to ensure that the appropriate steps are taken.
Signs of an overdose caused by the combination of oxycodone and ibuprofen include: (28)
- Chest pain
- Cold or clammy skin
- Small pupils
- Hearing unexplained noises such as ringing or buzzing
- Decreased awareness
- Decreased responsiveness
- Trouble breathing
- Difficulties falling or staying asleep
- Drowsiness
- Disorientation
- Changes in consciousness
- Lethargy
- Inability to control bladder
- Muscles spasms
- Pale or blue skin
- Being unable to hear
- Fainting
- Coma
If you or someone you know experiences any of the above symptoms after taking ibuprofen and oxycodone together, seek immediate emergency care as overdoses can be fatal.
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- https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/opioids/benzodiazepines-opioids#:~:text=Co%2DPrescribing%20Opioids%20and%20Benzodiazepines&text=Combining%20opioids%20and%20benzodiazepines%20can,addition%20to%20impairing%20cognitive%20functions.
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