Can You Take Aspirin and Ibuprofen Together?
Medically reviewed by Faith Coleman, University of New Mexico School of Medicine on August 22nd, 2026.
Aspirin and ibuprofen should not be taken together due to increased bleeding risk, especially gastrointestinal. Both medications are NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) that can interact and amplify side effects. When combined, they can increase your risk of gastrointestinal bleeding by up to 40% compared to taking either medication alone. The combination also reduces aspirin's cardioprotective benefits for heart patients. If your doctor recommends both medications, space them at least 2 hours apart. Studies show this timing preserves aspirin's heart benefits while minimizing interaction risks. Always consult your healthcare provider before combining any NSAIDs, especially if you take daily low-dose aspirin for heart protection.
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