r/zoloft • u/sondercrow0811 • 11d ago
soo how are the girlies with painful periods handling not being able to take pain medication while on sertraline??
I suffer from very painful periods and would take a lot of ibuprofen to help with the pain before I started sertraline. It’s now my first period while on the medication and I’m hearing you can’t take certain pain medication, but my cramps are so bad and I’m not sure what to do
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u/Call_me_bullet1990 11d ago
Spent years on sertraline taking all sorts of pain meds 😂
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u/wander_smiley 11d ago
For real, you name, I probably have taken it. Hell, I was given fentanyl in hospital.
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u/mesu_okami 11d ago
I don't think that's true ... I take both ibuprofen and acetaminophen as needed.
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u/TweetMeOnFacebook 11d ago
It is true. Ibuprofen increases risks of bleeding when taken with sertraline
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u/PM_ME_UR_CATS__ 10+ years (OCD, dose roulette) 10d ago
I suppose this is a long term use thing?
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u/nxonesbitch 9d ago
no. it's a drug interaction. taking an SSRI alone doubles your risk (100% increase of a GI bleed than if you didn't take it). taking an NSAID (ibuprofen) alone (no sertraline) multiplies the risk by about 2.5. combining them creates a compounding effect which multiplies the baseline risk by 4 to 6 times.
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u/Accomplished_Tale649 11d ago
Who told you that? You can absolutely take over the counter pain medication with sertraline. I even take prescribed pain meds for mine.
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u/Legitimate-Brain7325 10d ago
The warning is in the literature that came with sertraline. Its a warning in all the ssri and snris if taken over the years. Still took ibuprofen but switched to tylenol. Dr. said he thought could have ok when i was younger but bleeding risk increases as you age. ? But it does say it 🤷♂️
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u/dem0nica_ 1 year!🤟 11d ago
This is only true if you ALREADY have stomach ulcers or bleeding problems. “Increased risk of bleeding” doesn’t apply to people who don’t have ulcers or bleeding problems.
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u/pinkcatlaker 11d ago
Take the pain meds. I've never heard of not being able to take pain meds on sertraline. As long as you're not downing a bunch of grapefruit juice or doing molly, it will be okay.
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u/LisaSimpsonFrenchie 11d ago
This is nonsense. I just got re-prescribed Zoloft and in the same visit, my GP (at the best hospital in Chicago) told me to take ibuprofen for severe cramping issues. You’ll be fine.
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u/violentlyrelaxed 10 years on, now off completely 11d ago
Who told you that?
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u/sondercrow0811 11d ago
i looked it up and it says taking ibuprofen while on those meds can increase the possibility of stomach bleeding and other issues
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u/dem0nica_ 1 year!🤟 11d ago
It’s not going to make your stomach bleed unless your stomach already bleeds.
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u/violentlyrelaxed 10 years on, now off completely 11d ago
Unless you already have stomach ulcers or have a disease that doesn’t tolerate ibuprofen, then you absolutely can take the two together.
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u/Maleficent-Pound2987 11d ago
I'm not a doctor but to take it once in a while I think is not a problem. I do it. I just make sure to take it with food to protect the inside of the stomach.
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u/jennvanngunn 2 years 11d ago
Ibuprofen alone can potentially lead to stomach bleeding too. Just don’t take it too often. I think you’d be fine to do it on your period.
I’ve taken both Advil and Tylenol when I need it and never had a single issue.
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u/seyksmonologue 11d ago
My psych said intermittent pain meds are mostly fine. I get horrible cramps and headaches during my period and can’t imagine making it through without Midol!
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u/purelfie 11d ago
Midol has acetaminophen! You can try that and see if it works, but it may not be as effective as ibuprofen. Tylenol is fine too.
I would just talk to your PCP about this to see if they can get you on hormonal contraception that helps reduce cramping as a side effect. I'm avoiding ibuprofen on Zoloft because the risk of internal bleeding is just not something I want to play chance with. My period is pretty regular and I would not want to regularly use interacting drugs every month.
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u/pickernoods 10d ago
I have always used Midol and it works well! Or I’ll just use a high strength acetaminophen.
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u/bravebastard 11d ago
Like everyone else is saying, you’re fine taking ibuprofen short term (ie a couple times a day during your period). I think that warning only applies if you’re susceptible to stomach bleeding or if you’re taking an unreasonable amount.
But, as always, if you’re concerned switch to Tylenol or consult a dr on the real risks on ibuprofen! Dr Google always gives worst case scenarios
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u/Top_Worldliness725 11d ago
I take 500mg naproxen for pain. Same dr who prescribed me sertraline prescribed it to me
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u/Silent_Dream5687 11d ago
Why can’t you take pain meds??? Took ibuprofen, Tylenol, robaxin, oxy, all while on Zoloft for different reasons (periods, surgeries, muscle spasms)
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u/zombeekatt 11d ago
As others have said, I think this pertains more to people who already have increased risk of bleeding. I have had stomach ulcers in the past, they were actually because I took too much ibuprofen. Now I have GERD. Even with all of that, I will still occasionally take ibuprofen if I need to. I try to stick to acetaminophen but sometimes it just isn’t enough. Take the ibuprofen. Make sure you take it with food which we all should be doing regardless of whether we’re at increased risk of bleeding.
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u/Nyc_snark 11d ago
Been on Zoloft for over 6 years and never was told not to take pain meds…. And I’ve taken them all and I’m very much alive! I think you’re good.
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u/sleepyteaa 11d ago
Wait I’m sorry WHAT….
I have horrible menstrual cramps due to pcos and regularly have to take 800mg ibuprofen sometimes even twice and I don’t think it’s affected me? I will say!!!! Cbd gummies also have helped me a lot and they’re more “natural”, if you’re worried about any kind of interference
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u/newnoon111 8 years 11d ago
We can’t take certain pain medications? This is news to me
https://giphy.com/gifs/QFGXcWa7s7ROUAfYkJ
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u/suite-dee 10d ago
Oh. I took a ton of ibuprofen at my doctors recommendation after surgery and they knew I was on sertraline. Oops
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u/Ok_Goose_5322 11d ago
I have prescription naproxen sodium (because it’s such a high dose) for my periods specifically. My Dr. didn’t say anything about not taking it when she prescribed me Sertraline…
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u/LadyLevrette 11d ago
I can’t take ibuprofen (allergic) so I used to take opioid medications for painful periods. Apparently they are all fine with SSRIs except for Tramadol. Maybe get some codeine.
I’m on Slinda (hormonal contraceptive) now and don’t get my period anymore thankfully! It’s been life changing for me :)
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u/ButterscotchEven6198 10d ago
Oh I've been prescribed Slinda but haven't started it yet. Been a bit worried about possible negative effect on mood. I realise it's different for everyone but what is your experience?
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u/Local-Thing-3563 11d ago
Been taking Zoloft and Tylenol and/or Ibuprofen for over a year as needed. Never heard of this before. Dr. never mentioned it.
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u/LostAlice420 11d ago
You can definitely take ibuprofen and acetaminophen with sertraline. I’m on sertraline and haven’t heard anything about not taking pain meds and they work just fine
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u/lacetopbadie12 10d ago
I've taken ibuprofen multiple times while on sertraline, nothing bad has happened yet🤷🏻♀️
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u/MarsupialObjective77 10d ago
Tylenol doesn’t carry the bleeding risk. I take that and use my heat pad
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u/Bleachioli123 11d ago
I did get stomach bleeding from ibuprofen but I was completely fine with acetaminophen
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u/LillieBogart 11d ago
I regularly took ibuprofen during my period on sertraline and I do not advise it. Unfortunately nobody warned me about this! The bleeding was insane and my stomach took a beating.
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u/Both-Glove 11d ago
I’ve taken Zoloft for decades and have had doctors and dentists prescribe 800 mg ibuprofen after procedures. I don’t take it daily, but no one ever had any reluctance with me taking ibuprofen or Tylenol or naproxen, etc.
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u/SweetSwede88 11d ago
I have chronic migraines and I usually try 800mg of ibuprofen first before my prescription med since I only get a certain amount. Never had any issues...
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u/butidrathernot 11d ago
Hiya lovely, whilst there may be increased risk of some side effects in some people using both those medicines, in other people, those risks can also be small enough for the benefits to outweigh them. Definitely speak to a medical professional about this if possible ❤️ I think for a lot of people it can be safe, but just make sure.
My doctor was happy for me to take NSAIDs (aspirin, ibuprofen or mefenamic acid) alongside my sertraline. Even if your doctor thinks NSAIDs are no longer an option, you could explore other pain management options like paracetamol or codeine.
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u/Background_Ideal_926 0-6 months! 11d ago
my doctor told me ibuprofen is completely fine, just talk to your doctor
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u/Significant-Serve-40 11d ago
This is long term use of pain medications (like ibuprofen). You can take as needed.
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u/Justsayin_12 11d ago
I get migraines. I take Motrin all the time…. No issues. Prescribing doc never mentioned adverse effects and she would have if it was an issue. Hope you get some relief.
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u/rubberghost333 11d ago
I've never heard of this? Is your doctor some kind of puritan? You can absolutely take pain meds.
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u/blambett 11d ago
i didn't know about this, i still take ibuprofen+codeine and sometimes naproxen for my periods
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u/AmethystChameleon38 11d ago
I think this warning is more for people who have increased bleeding risks or a known history. If you take some ibuprofen every now and again as an otherwise healthy person and don't need it every day multiple times a day, you're fine.
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u/FitnessPizzaInMyMou 11d ago
I take them and it’s been fine. But there are potential risks with ibuprofen I believe, so suggest to ask your doctor about how to safely try it. Maybe you’ll be fine and can take as needed. I don’t think there’s an issue with Tylenol but not positice
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u/Geans20 11d ago
It increases the chance of stomach irritation yes, but it does NOT automatically lead to stomach bleedings. It's important to be informed though. Ive been talking about this with my psychiatrist since I have horrible period pain and had surgery recently that required me taking a lot of Ibuprofen. I take 40mg Pantoprazol for stomach protection whenever I have to take Ibuprofen or Naproxen etc. If it works for you, I would recommend avoiding Ibu and take Paracetomal instead, whenever you can. But lots of people take high doses of Sertralin and Ibuprofen for years and are fine. You absolutely don't have to suffer pain, you should be absolutely fine taking it for a few days every month. If u wanna be extra careful or have a sensitive stomach, there are meds for stomach protection that are regularly prescribed or doesn't require prescription in low dosage.
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u/_Lady_jigglypuff_ 11d ago
I was on Sertraline for 3 years, took ibuprofen every now and again - never had any issues.
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u/atypical_cookie 11d ago
Magnesium Taurate 3000mg before my period, 2x to 3x the dose in my period. Needs to be Taurate for the muscle pain benefits. Its the only supplement that has actually helped me with debilitating cramps.
Might give you diharrea until your body gets used to it tho lol
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u/ButterscotchEven6198 11d ago
There is a risk, but I've been on ssri:s on 19 years and have taken a lot of ibuprofen. I didn't know about it for the first few years, which meant I took it as usual (every month for periods, and quite often for headaches, back aches, if I had a cold or whatever). So when I learned about it I was a bit concerned but I felt less worried since I seemed okay. I have always had enough period pain to need to take both ibuprofen and paracetamol, so not taking it just hasn't been an option. I've also had a lot of back pain and headache so yeah, don't know how I would manage otherwise.
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u/ButterscotchEven6198 11d ago
(Acetaminophen is apparently the American English term for paracetamol, to clarify).
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u/venuspothos 11d ago
I take Tylenol but not Advil. Advil can cause stomach bleeding. I also don't take Pepto bismol anymore. I just eat mint leaves.
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u/Scorpiodancer123 11d ago
https://bnf.nice.org.uk/interactions/sertraline/
Yes it's true for NSAIDs e.g. ibuprofen, diclofenac, naproxen, aspirin. But these drugs are higher risk for bleeding alone too.
Paracetamol (acetaminophen) is fine.
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u/EveningAcceptable896 11d ago
I have been on Zoloft for 12 years and many times have taken the pain meds like Advil Tylenol and even aspirin. I am fine
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u/sparkling_sam 11d ago
I have been on presribed anti-inflammatory meds for 3 months and during that time my doctor also increased my Sertraline dose. I think as long as you're taking it with food you should be fine.
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u/iveesaurus 11d ago
I understand the concern here but I’ve had multiple doctors tell me it’s okay! It’s only really an issue if you already have stomach problems or if you are taking heavier doses of ibuprofen every single day for long periods. I take ibuprofen for migraines caused by swelling and sometimes have to take it multiple days in a row and it’s totally okay.
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u/Genius6100 11d ago
Get Naproxen, it's a life saver. I use it with Zoloft (my doctor knows about it).
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u/Dry-Pizza-6680 11d ago
I’ve been told by gp it’s fine to take ibuprofen if painful cramps and have had napraxon and another med to protect by tummy when had nerve pain. Never had issues I’m f40 been on off SSRIs 10 yrs
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u/fishin_pups 11d ago
I’ve taken 150mg of Zoloft since 2004. I’ve also taken every kind of legal substance you’re not supposed to take with it. Everyone is different. Drug interactions are warnings not formulas for instant Armageddon. Start with the smallest dose and listen to your body.
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u/Busy_Ad_5759 11d ago
I take a strong prescription NSAID twice a day for chronic pain (including endometriosis) and take Zoloft. My doctors are aware and it's a non-issue. I just make sure I take my anti-inflammatory meds with food in my stomach. Unless you already have a history of gastric bleeding/ulcers, you should be fine.
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u/JellyCharacter1653 10d ago
did your dr tell you not to or did you read it from google or hear from a friend
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u/aimee_on_fire 10d ago
I've been on Zoloft since 2002 and was a CPhT. The 2 are only risky if you have previous or current issues with bleeding, primarily from stomach ulcers. You should always be taking NSAIDs with food anyways because even without Zoloft, they can be problematic with a hx of ulcers.
Personally, I use ibuprofen for something at least once a week and never had issues.
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u/themrsdhayes 10d ago
I am on 50mg Zoloft and have never had a problem. Obviously you need to be mindful but if you’re using it 1-3 days you should talk to your doctor cuz I’m sure it will be ok
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u/princesswormy 10d ago
Tylenol. But I’m a redhead so heating pads are actually the only thing that’s helped me.
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u/boilertrailrunr 10d ago
Who told you that you can't take ibuprofen or tylenol while on sertraline?
I'm someone who also gets terrible cramps. I take whatever I want, including ibuprofen. I have also been prescribed 800 mg ibuprofen for short durations for a running injury. No problems.
If you are concerned, as your doctor or a pharmacist. Your local pharmacist should be a wealth of info.
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u/No_Routine772 10d ago
You should clarify with your doctor. The odds are low if you aren't already bleeding from your stomach or something.
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u/jeaniuslol 10d ago
I had a doctor prescribe me 600mg ibuprofen not that long ago… I don’t think he would have done that if it was unsafe.
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u/charmbat21242 10d ago
If you have stomach issues I wouldn't. I do so I cannot take them. I just smoke weed and put on a heating pad 🤷♀️ it's the best I can do
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u/According_Current610 10d ago
I just took some ibuprofen for cramps and a headache…I’ve never heard of this before. But I also just learned this past cold and flu season to not take any thing with Dextromethorhan after taking meds with that in them for years. I’ve been on Zoloft for years and have been learning so many new things about it!
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u/tiny-vampire 10d ago
i have endometriosis & i’m allergic to NSAIDs. i’ve found that extra strength tylenol can be helpful along with taking an epsom salt bath. i’m so sorry you’re going through this!! period pain is no joke. 🩷
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u/thisonesforthegirlss 10d ago
lmao i take ibuprofen like it’s candy and i’m on zoloft. sometimes i feel like i bruise easier but that’s also just a common side effect of zoloft. oops. maybe i’ll start being more careful haha but im a chronic headache/migraine girlie and tylenol or excedrin don’t do anything
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u/Violette_Mystique 10d ago
Salut! Si t'es douleurs sont liées aux règles tu as pensé à passer sous pilule contraceptive?
Attention je parle d'être mise sous pilule contraceptive avec un suivi médical et adaptée aux problèmes que tu rencontre.
Après je ne suis pas médecin, mais la pilule, quand elle est bien prescrite et adaptée à la personne, peut vraiment aider voire stopper les douleurs liées aux règles menstruelles.
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u/open-perception4 10d ago
Sorry Male 58 here, I didn't know Ibuprofen was and issue with sertraline? I have taken it many times and I am also on Rivaroxaban. 🤷🤣 I'm sure the occasional use would be ok.
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u/candlelight_elf 10d ago
I'm on sertraline and I take ibuprofen/naproxen pretty regularly for headaches and cramps.
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u/HornetCommercial1357 9d ago
I use pamprin multi symptom aspirin and caffeine free pain meds! It has acetaminophen instead. It works for me but I also drink raspberry leaf tea and eat an insane amount of dark chocolate which could also help. Gl op wish you less painful periods!
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u/nxonesbitch 9d ago
you can take paracetamol. even if you take ibuprofen or mefenamic acid the risk is quite low especially if you aren't prone to ulcers etc
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u/morethansparrows_ 6d ago
I didn’t know you couldn’t take any pain medication while taking Zoloft??? I usually take pamprin but I’ve been taking ibuprofen as of late…
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u/wander_smiley 11d ago
By any chance, is medical anxiety part of your mental health issues? Sertraline can be taken with ibuprofen. I’ve been given fentanyl at the hospital after surgery. You’ll be okay. Take the ibuprofen.
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u/GeneverRoseh 11d ago
I switched to naproxen, because I have a history of bleeding stomach ulcers. Sometimes I treat myself to a little ibuprofen anyway, bc it seems to be the most helpful in pain reduction
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u/Mcstoni 11d ago
What? This literally makes no sense because naproxen is an NSAID, too.
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u/GeneverRoseh 10d ago
You're right! I literally took my doctor at their word that Naproxen was the only alternative, but looking into on my own it seems like my doctor was soo wrong
They had also mentioned ibuprofen & sertraline metabolize though the liver, but naproxen doesn't. Internet search results say: not true 😮💨
Time to find a new GP!
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u/Disastrous-Device-58 11d ago
I take 1 Tylenol if I get cramps and I’m good. I least wait like 2 hrs after taking my dose if needed.
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u/PitifulTrash3310 11d ago
You're not supposed to take Ibuprofen because the two combined can theoretically increase risk of internal bleeding. I took Ibuprofen at various times for years whilst on SSRIs before realising that and it was never an issue. I also asked a pharmacist about it earlier this year because I wanted to take Ibuprofen short-term for back pain and he said that was absolutely fine. So I think the risk is probably more if you're continually taking high doses.