From the FDA Drug Label
Henoch-Schonlein vasculitis The FDA drug label mentions Henoch-Schonlein vasculitis, which is another term for IgA vasculitis, as a possible adverse reaction to ibuprofen 1.
- Ibuprofen can cause IgA vasculitis.
From the Research
Medications that can cause IgA vasculitis include vaccines, antibiotics, and TNF-α blockers, as well as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and naproxen. These medications can trigger an immune response, leading to the formation of immune complexes containing IgA that deposit in small blood vessels, causing inflammation and characteristic symptoms of IgA vasculitis, including palpable purpura, joint pain, abdominal pain, and sometimes kidney involvement 2. The most recent and highest quality study, published in 2021, identified vaccines, antibiotics, and TNF-α blockers as the main drugs reported to induce IgA vasculitis, with NSAIDs also being implicated in some cases 2, 3. Key points to consider when managing patients with IgA vasculitis include:
- Discontinuation of the offending medication, if suspected as the cause, can lead to resolution of symptoms within days to weeks 4
- Immune complex deposition activates the complement system, causing inflammation of blood vessel walls 5
- Severity of gastrointestinal manifestations and nephritis can impact short-term and long-term prognosis, respectively 5
- A high index of suspicion is required for the evaluation of environmental exposures, such as drugs, in patients with vasculitis and/or purpura 3. In clinical practice, it is essential to be aware of the potential for drug-induced IgA vasculitis and to consider discontinuation of the offending agent to prevent further complications and improve patient outcomes 2, 3.