A 2015 article in Therapeutics and Clinical Risk Management took a closer look at how ibuprofen might affect older adults taking other medications. Prescription ibuprofen can make angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) or angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) less effective in treating high blood pressure. Some people taking fosinopril or hydrochlorothiazide for high blood pressure could develop kidney failure if they take high doses of ibuprofen. People taking aspirin for their heart should avoid long-term use of ibuprofen so it doesn’t interfere with aspirin’s anticoagulant benefits.
Long-term use of NSAIDs such as ibuprofen can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney failure, and cardiovascular problems, according to a 2010 article in The Annals of Long-Term Care. NSAIDs increase the risk of fatal peptic ulcers, especially if they’re taken with corticosteroids and warfarin. Older adults are at a higher risk of kidney failure, and this risk doubles if you take NSAIDs for an extended time. Chronic use of NSAIDs can also increase your risk of a heart attack, heart failure, or stroke.