The World Health Organization has cautioned against the use of Ibuprofen for symptoms of coronavirus such as a runny nose, sore throat, cough, and fever.
The warning was issued following concerns raised by French health officials regarding the potential of anti-inflammatory drugs to exacerbate the effects of the virus.
Referring to a recent study in The Lancet medical journal, French Health Minister Olivier Veran suggested that an enzyme, which is amplified by anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen, might aid and worsen COVID-19 infections.
Veran emphasized that individuals with coronavirus symptoms should opt for paracetamol as an alternative, and those already using anti-inflammatory drugs should seek advice from their doctor.
Addressing the study, WHO spokesman Christian Lindmeier informed reporters in Geneva that the UN health agency’s experts are investigating the matter to provide further guidance.
He further added:
“In the meantime, we recommend using paracetamol instead of ibuprofen as a self-medication. This is important. If ibuprofen has been prescribed by healthcare professionals, then, of course, that’s up to them.”
An AFP report revealed that a spokesperson for British pharmaceutical company Reckitt Benckiser, the manufacturer of Nurofen, acknowledged concerns raised about the use of steroids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAIDs) products, including ibuprofen, to alleviate COVID-19 symptoms.
The statement from the company noted:
“Consumer safety is our number one priority. 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-the-counter use of ibuprofen to the aggravation of COVID-19. Reckitt Benckiser is engaging with the WHO, EMA (the European Medicines Agency) and other local health authorities on the issue and would provide any additional information or guidance necessary for the safe use of our products following any such evaluation.”