Ibuprofen and virus links to be examined

Links between ibuprofen and Covid-19 are to be investigated by experts.

Health officials have said that there is currently “no strong evidence” that ibuprofen can make coronavirus worse.

But as a precautionary measure it has been advised that people use paracetamol to relieve symptoms of the virus.

There has been debate online about the use of the drug and treating symptoms of the illness.

Confusion over the use of ibuprofen began at the weekend when a French health minister suggested that antiinflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen, could worsen the infection.

Now the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice) and the Commission on Human Medicines have been tasked with reviewing any evidence likening the commonly used pain killer and worsening cases of Covid-19.

A government response to Ibuprofen use and coronavirus states: “There is currently no strong evidence that ibuprofen can make coronavirus (Covid19) worse. Until we have more information, take paracetamol to treat the symptoms of coronavirus, unless your doctor has told you paracetamol is not suitable for you.”

Earlier this week, Reckitt Benckiser, the makers of Nurofen, said it was liaising with the World Health Organisation and other health bodies, but it stressed that there is no current evidence linking ibuprofen to the worsening of Covid-19.

The statement added: “Ibuprofen is a well-established medicine that has been used safely as a self-care fever and pain reducer, including in viral illnesses, for more than 30 years.

“We do not currently believe there is any proven scientific evidence linking over-thecounter use of ibuprofen to the aggravation of Covid-19.”

PA. Ibuprofen is a commonlyused painkiller. Picture: