Ibuprofen Constipation: What to Know and How to Cope

Ibuprofen can cause constipation in some people, although it’s usually a mild and less common gastrointestinal side effect compared with stomach pain, heartburn, or diarrhea. ^{[1] [2]} Constipation is listed among “other side effects” for over‑the‑counter and prescription ibuprofen products. ^{[3] [4]} Multiple official drug labels for ibuprofen state that NSAIDs may lead to stomach pain, constipation, gas, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. So, constipation is a recognized ibuprofen side effect, but not everyone will experience it. ^[5]

---

Why ibuprofen may lead to constipation

• GI motility changes: NSAIDs can irritate the gastrointestinal tract and may alter motility, leading to symptoms like constipation or diarrhea in some people. [PM18] [PM19]
• Individual sensitivity: Factors like age, hydration, fiber intake, and concurrent medications influence risk; constipation from medications is more common with opioids, but can occur with NSAIDs as well. Personal variability matters. [PM11] [PM18]
• Dose and duration: Higher doses or longer courses of NSAIDs tend to produce more GI side effects overall. Short courses at the lowest effective dose generally carry lower risk. [PM20]

---

How common is it?

Constipation is acknowledged on consumer and professional ibuprofen labeling as a possible side effect; however, labels do not quantify exact frequency for the general population. Clinically, constipation appears less frequent than dyspepsia or heartburn with NSAIDs, but it can still occur. ^[2] [PM18]

---

Practical ways to prevent and manage constipation

• Hydration: Aim for adequate daily fluids unless restricted by your clinician; dehydration can harden stools and worsen constipation. Consistent water intake helps keep stool soft. ^[6]
• Fiber intake: Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes; consider a fiber supplement if your diet is low in fiber. Increase fiber gradually to avoid gas. ^[6]
• Physical activity: Gentle, regular movement supports bowel motility; even short walks can help. ^[6]
• Bowel routine: Try to use the bathroom at the same time daily; don’t ignore the urge to go. Routine supports regularity. ^[6]
• Short courses and lowest effective dose: Use ibuprofen at the smallest effective dose for the shortest time; discuss alternatives if constipation persists. [PM20]
• Laxatives when needed: If constipation continues for more than a few days, a stimulant laxative (such as senna) with or without a stool softener is commonly used in pain‑medicine guidance; avoid relying solely on stool softeners or fiber agents without another laxative if stools are very hard. Ask a clinician first if you have heart, kidney, or bowel conditions. ^{[7] [6]}

---

When to seek medical advice

• Red flags: Severe abdominal pain, vomiting, blood in stool, black/tarry stool, unintentional weight loss, or no bowel movement for more than 2–3 days despite self‑care warrant prompt medical review. These signs can indicate complications that need evaluation. ^{[8] [9]}
• History of GI problems: If you have ulcer disease, inflammatory bowel disease, or prior NSAID‑related GI injury, talk with your clinician before using ibuprofen; strategies like switching agents or adding gastric protection may be considered. [PM20] [PM19]

---

Medication considerations and alternatives

• Review other constipating drugs: Opioids, certain antidepressants, calcium channel blockers, and diuretics can worsen constipation; adjusting these (if appropriate) may help. Medication lists matter. [PM11]
• Alternative analgesics: Depending on your condition and risk profile, acetaminophen (paracetamol) or selective COX‑2 inhibitors might be discussed to balance pain relief and GI tolerability, although each has its own risks. Decisions should be individualized. [PM10] [PM21] [PM20]

---

Bottom line

• Yes, ibuprofen can cause constipation, though it is usually mild and not universal. ^{[2] [3]}
• You can often prevent or relieve it with hydration, fiber, activity, bowel routines, and short courses at the lowest effective dose; consider a short‑term laxative if needed and discuss persistent symptoms with a clinician. ^{[6] [7]}
• Seek care for warning signs or if constipation does not improve within a couple of days. ^{[8] [9]}