Taking away pain and pleasure

MEN who take a common painkiller for long periods could lose their sex drive, researchers warn.

Ibuprofen affects the production of sex hormones and prolonged use could also lead to muscle loss and depression, they found.

While taking it for an occasional headache is unlikely to cause a problem, many turn to the drug for long-term pain management.

Sufferers of chronic arthritis and athletes with persistent injuries are among those who rely on it.

Scientists tested the effects of the equivalent of six 200mg ibuprofen tablets on volunteers, and studied testicle cells. They said protracted use could lead to a condition called overt primary hypogonadism, which affects the sex hormones that regulate the production of testosterone.

The research team, from the University of Copenhagen, warned: “Ibuprofen appears to be the preferred pharmaceutical analgesic for long-term chronic pain and arthritis.

“Therefore, it is also of concern that men ... may eventually progress to overt primary hypogonadism, which is characterised by low circulating testosterone and prevalent symptoms including reduced libido, reduced muscle mass and strength, and depressed mood and fatigue.”

A British drug industry body said people taking overthe-counter ibuprofen “should not be concerned” by the research.