Currently, vaccination programs against the coronavirus have inoculated over 2.5 million people in the United Kingdom, with health officials ramping up efforts during the third national lockdown. However, many people are questioning whether they can take the popular pain reliever ibuprofen after receiving the vaccine.
Health experts have stated that some individuals may experience side effects after receiving their first or second doses of the coronavirus vaccine, which can occur at the injection site or throughout the body. While these side effects are generally temporary and harmless—unless someone has an allergy to the COVID-19 vaccine—it may be necessary to alleviate pain through the use of pain relievers or other therapeutic methods. According to the National Health Service (NHS), possible side effects from receiving the coronavirus vaccine may include:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Chills
- Severe headache
It is noteworthy that individuals should contact their doctor if pain increases or if redness around the injection site worsens, or if other symptoms persist for a few more days. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people can take ibuprofen if they really need it. The organization also recommends using over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to relieve side effects associated with the coronavirus vaccine. However, many people are concerned about rumors suggesting that such medications could reduce the vaccine's effectiveness. In response, several doctors have said, "If you are taking aspirin, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen regularly to relieve pain or symptoms from other medical conditions, continue doing so as directed by your doctor or as needed."
### Can You Take Ibuprofen if You Have COVID-19?
Despite previous rumors and suggestions that taking ibuprofen could worsen COVID-19 symptoms, a panel of experts from the UK’s Human Medicines Committee has concluded that people can still take it without fear of exacerbating their symptoms. Doctors have stated that there is currently insufficient evidence to prove a link between the use of ibuprofen or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs increasing the risk of contracting COVID-19 or worsening its symptoms.
