From the Guidelines
Ibuprofen 800 mg and cyclobenzaprine can generally be taken together, but it is crucial to be aware of potential interactions and side effects, particularly anticholinergic effects and increased risk of serotonin syndrome, as noted in the 2021 study by the Society for Perioperative Assessment and Quality Improvement 1. When taking these medications together, it's essential to follow prescribed dosages—typically ibuprofen 800 mg every 6-8 hours as needed (not exceeding 3200 mg daily) and cyclobenzaprine 5-10 mg three times daily as directed. Some key points to consider when taking these medications concurrently include:
- Take ibuprofen with food to minimize stomach irritation.
- Be aware that combining these medications may increase the risk of side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, and stomach upset.
- Cyclobenzaprine causes significant drowsiness, so avoid driving or operating machinery when taking it, and avoid alcohol consumption which can worsen these effects.
- If you experience unusual side effects like severe stomach pain, black stools, or unusual drowsiness, contact your healthcare provider immediately. It is also important to note that the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can have implications for patients taking aspirin for cardioprotection, as discussed in the 2007 American Heart Association scientific statement 1. However, this consideration is not directly relevant to the concurrent use of ibuprofen and cyclobenzaprine. Given the potential for adverse effects, particularly with long-term use of cyclobenzaprine, it is recommended to taper the medication over 2 to 3 weeks to prevent withdrawal symptoms, as suggested by the 2021 study 1.
From the Research
Ibuprofen and Cyclobenzaprine Concurrent Use
- There are no direct studies provided that examine the concurrent use of ibuprofen 800mg and cyclobenzaprine.
- However, the provided studies discuss the safety and efficacy of ibuprofen in various contexts, including its use with other medications 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- Ibuprofen has been shown to have a relatively low risk of adverse effects, including gastrointestinal and cardiovascular events, especially at over-the-counter doses 2, 4, 6.
- The concomitant use of ibuprofen and paracetamol has been studied, and the results suggest that the risks of adverse events are not significantly increased compared to using either medication alone 3.
- Cyclobenzaprine is a muscle relaxant that is often used in combination with other medications, including NSAIDs like ibuprofen, to treat muscle spasms and pain.
- While there is no direct evidence provided on the concurrent use of ibuprofen 800mg and cyclobenzaprine, it is generally recommended to use caution when combining medications and to monitor for potential adverse effects.
- Patients should consult with their healthcare provider before taking any new medications, including ibuprofen and cyclobenzaprine, to discuss potential interactions and side effects.