Ibuprofen and Bloating: What to Know and How to Cope

Ibuprofen can cause gastrointestinal side effects like gas and bloating in some people. ^[1] Ibuprofen labeling lists “gas” (flatulence) among common stomach-related side effects, which may be felt as bloating or abdominal fullness. ^[2] Some professional drug labels also describe “flatulence” and “bloating” among adverse reactions reported with ibuprofen tablets. ^[3] In clinical trials, gastrointestinal complaints are the most frequent side effects with ibuprofen, affecting roughly 4% to 16% of users, which can include symptoms such as gas, heartburn, and stomach discomfort. ^{[4] [5] [6]}

Why Ibuprofen Can Cause Bloating

• Prostaglandin effect on the gut: Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces prostaglandins, which normally protect the stomach and help regulate bowel function; lowering them can lead to gas, indigestion, and discomfort. ^{[1] [2]}
• Irritation of the stomach lining: NSAIDs can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, which may slow gastric emptying or trigger dyspepsia (upset stomach), contributing to a sensation of bloating. ^{[1] [2]}
• Dose and duration matter: Higher doses and longer use tend to increase the chance of stomach-related side effects compared with short, low-dose courses. ^{[4] [5] [6]}

Who Is More Likely to Feel Bloating from Ibuprofen

• Sensitive stomach or prior GI symptoms: People with a history of indigestion or functional GI symptoms may notice gas or bloating more readily when taking NSAIDs. ^{[1] [2]}
• Taking on an empty stomach: Ibuprofen without food can increase stomach irritation and gas for some individuals. ^{[1] [2]}
• Higher doses or frequent use: Regular high-dose use raises the overall rate of GI complaints. ^{[4] [5] [6]}

Practical Ways to Reduce Bloating

• Take with food or milk: Using ibuprofen with a meal can lessen stomach irritation and reduce gas sensations. ^{[1] [2]}
• Use the lowest effective dose, for the shortest time: This approach lowers your chance of GI side effects while still controlling pain. ^{[4] [5] [6]}
• Consider an antacid or acid reducer if needed: Short-term use of antacids may ease heartburn and gas-related discomfort when appropriate. ^{[1] [2]}
• Avoid gas-triggering foods around dosing: Try limiting carbonated drinks, beans, onions, and high-fat meals when you take ibuprofen to reduce bloating. ^{[1] [2]}
• Stay hydrated and move gently: Light walking can help move gas through the intestines and relieve distension. ^{[1] [2]}
• Try a different pain reliever if symptoms persist: If bloating continues, ask a clinician whether acetaminophen (paracetamol) may be a safer alternative for your situation. ^{[1] [2]}

When to Seek Medical Advice

• Red flags: Ibuprofen can, in rare cases, cause serious stomach problems like ulcers or bleeding; seek urgent care for black stools, vomiting blood, severe stomach pain, chest pain, trouble breathing, slurred speech, or swelling of the face or throat. ^{[1] [2]}
• Ongoing or worsening bloating: If bloating is persistent, severe, or accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or weight loss, talk to a healthcare professional to rule out other causes and discuss safer pain control options. ^{[1] [2]}

Summary Table: Ibuprofen and Bloating

Topic	Key Points
Is bloating possible?	Yes gas/flatulence is a known ibuprofen side effect that can feel like bloating. [1] [2] [3]
How common are GI side effects?	GI complaints occur in about 4–16% of users in trials. [4] [5] [6]
Risk factors	Empty stomach, higher doses, longer use, sensitive GI tract. [1] [2]
Coping tips	Take with food, use lowest effective dose, consider antacids, adjust diet, light activity. [1] [2]
When to get help	Any signs of GI bleeding or severe symptoms; persistent or worsening bloating. [1] [2]

Bottom Line

Ibuprofen can cause gas and bloating for some people, typically as part of its common gastrointestinal side effects. ^{[1] [2]} Simple steps taking it with food, lowering dose and duration, and avoiding trigger foods often reduce bloating and make ibuprofen more tolerable. ^{[4] [5] [6]}