MAJOR — Use With Caution
FDA-documented interaction. Lithium levels can increase 15-53%. Monitor lithium levels when starting, stopping, or changing NSAID dose. Consider acetaminophen instead.
Evidence level: STRONG
Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can significantly raise lithium levels in your blood by reducing how quickly your kidneys eliminate lithium. Since lithium has a very narrow safety range, this can cause toxicity.
NSAIDs reduce renal prostaglandin synthesis, decreasing renal blood flow and lithium clearance. Can increase lithium levels by 15-53%. FDA lithium label warns about NSAID co-administration.
Avoid ibuprofen if you take lithium. Use acetaminophen (Tylenol) for pain instead. If an NSAID is truly needed, use the lowest dose for the shortest time and get your lithium level checked.
Take Ibuprofen with food to protect the stomach lining. Lithium follows its prescribed schedule. Use the lowest effective NSAID dose for the shortest duration. Stay well hydrated — NSAIDs can affect kidney function.
Higher risk for: elderly, those with history of GI bleeding or ulcers, renal impairment, concurrent anticoagulant or corticosteroid use, cardiovascular disease, or chronic high-dose NSAID use.
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, tremor worsening, drowsiness, confusion, slurred speech, muscle weakness, blurred vision, irregular heartbeat
Use acetaminophen instead of NSAIDs. If NSAID is necessary, request lithium level check within 5-7 days. Discuss lowest effective NSAID dose and shortest duration.
NSAID interactions often involve bleeding risk or kidney strain. Safer anti-inflammatory alternatives: curcumin/turmeric, omega-3 fish oil, or acetaminophen (for pain without anti-inflammatory effects). Use NSAIDs at the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration.
Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can significantly raise lithium levels in your blood by reducing how quickly your kidneys eliminate lithium. Since lithium has a very narrow safety range, this can cause toxicity.
Take Ibuprofen with food to protect the stomach lining. Lithium follows its prescribed schedule. Use the lowest effective NSAID dose for the shortest duration. Stay well hydrated — NSAIDs can affect kidney function.
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, tremor worsening, drowsiness, confusion, slurred speech, muscle weakness, blurred vision, irregular heartbeat
NSAID interactions often involve bleeding risk or kidney strain. Safer anti-inflammatory alternatives: curcumin/turmeric, omega-3 fish oil, or acetaminophen (for pain without anti-inflammatory effects). Use NSAIDs at the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration.
Use acetaminophen instead of NSAIDs. If NSAID is necessary, request lithium level check within 5-7 days. Discuss lowest effective NSAID dose and shortest duration.
Or browse the full interaction database (121,000+ pairs).