What is Diazepam?
Diazepam is a medication that belongs to the benzodiazepine family of drugs, known under the brand names Valium or Diazemuls in the UK. It is widely prescribed for the management of various purposes, including mental health conditions such as anxiety disorders, acute seizure mitigation, symptoms of alcohol withdrawal syndrome, muscle spasms, sleeplessness, and agitation. It can also help induce sedation when undergoing surgical procedures [1, 2].
It works primarily by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system that inhibits neuronal activity and thereby produces a calming effect [2]. It is available in different forms, including diazepam tablets, solutions, and concentrates, and is typically taken 1 to 4 times a day, with or without food [1]. Doses in children and older adults will likely require a lower dose.
However, diazepam has potential risks and common side effects. It can increase the risk of serious or life-threatening breathing problems and shallow breathing, medically called respiratory depression, and excessive sedation if combined with other drugs. DIazepam can lower blood pressure and cause muscle weakness. It may also cause physical dependence, especially if taken for several days to weeks. Abruptly stopping your diazepam medication can also cause persisting withdrawal symptoms, which is why it is always administered under medical supervision [1]. Make sure to seek medical help if you experience any of these side effects.
What is Ibuprofen?
Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) widely used to alleviate mild to severe pain and reduce fever [3]. It is a common first-line non-prescription medication for various issues such as headaches, menstrual cramps, arthritic pain, muscle aches, and dental pain [3]. It can also reduce fever in children, help post-operative pain and alleviate migraines [4].
Ibuprofen works by blocking the production of prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that the body naturally produces. Prostaglandins are a product of metabolites released after detecting a potentially pathological stimulus and increase pain sensitivity, further exacerbate inflammation, and induce fever. By inhibiting the creation of prostaglandins in the cyclooxygenase pathway (COX), ibuprofen effectively decreases pain, inflammation, and fever [5].
Can you take Ibuprofen with Diazepam?
There is limited evidence on the interaction between ibuprofen and diazepam. One study found that administering diazepam with ibuprofen at night significantly increased the mean elimination half-life of ibuprofen from 2.39 hours to 3.59 hours. This means that the clearance of ibuprofen from the body was reduced, potentially leading to higher levels of the drug in the system [6]. This could increase the likelihood you experience side effects of ibuprofen, which include a risk for an allergic reaction to ibuprofen
However, this does not necessarily mean that the combination is unsafe. It indicates that diazepam can affect how the body processes ibuprofen. It's important to note that this study was conducted on a small group of healthy volunteers, and the results may not apply to everyone.
In a cohort of women with facial pain, a randomized control trial studied the efficacy of diazepam, ibuprofen, or a combination of the two drugs in alleviating the pain. Compared to placebo, the diazepam only and diazepam and ibuprofen groups had significant pain reductions. Furthermore, no adverse events were reported in the diazepam and ibuprofen group, demonstrating that these two drugs can be taken together [7].
As with any medication, it's crucial to follow the advice of a healthcare professional. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you're considering taking ibuprofen and diazepam together. They can provide guidance based on your specific health situation and medication regimen.
Summary: Can you Take Ibuprofen with Diazepam?
Yes, ibuprofen and diazepam have been safely combined in randomized clinical trials without significant adverse effects. This means that they are safe to combine, especially if you have been prescribed diazepam for a specific medical condition. Taking them together can, however, increase the risks of side effects. Make sure to follow medical advice when taking any prescription drugs, such as diazepam, and seek medical help if you notice any unusual symptoms.