Medicines that can upset your stomach

Certain medicines a doctor prescribes can have side effects that may upset your stomach and cause indigestion, diarrhoea or constipation.

If you have an ulcer or you get indigestion, avoid aspirin and medicines used to treat arthritis, known as non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Consult your doctor if you rely on these medicines and are also prone to indigestion or ulcers. Paracetamol is a useful alternative.

Certain tranquillisers, painkillers, iron tablets and cough medicines can cause constipation and some people get diarrhoea while taking antibiotics or blood pressure pills.

See your GP if you have a sudden, persistent change in the pattern of how your bowels work, you’re bleeding from the bottom, have worsening heartburn, indigestion or stomach pain, you’re losing weight unexpectedly or have difficulty swallowing.