How dangerous is it to take ibuprofen every day?

Yes, you should be concerned — daily ibuprofen use for 6 months carries real and potentially serious risks. The stomach discomfort you're experiencing is likely an early warning sign. Please bring this up with your doctor at your next visit.

Gastrointestinal Risks

This is the most immediate danger. NSAIDs like ibuprofen inhibit the COX-1 enzyme that protects your stomach lining. Daily use significantly increases your risk of:

• Gastric ulcers: 1 in 5 chronic NSAID users develops an ulcer
• GI bleeding: Can be life-threatening and may occur without warning pain
• Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining (likely what you're feeling now)

Cardiovascular Risks

Long-term NSAID use (including ibuprofen) increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. The FDA issued a strengthened warning about this in 2015. The risk increases with higher doses and longer duration — exactly your situation.

Kidney Risks

NSAIDs reduce blood flow to the kidneys. Chronic daily use can cause:

• Fluid retention and elevated blood pressure
• Acute kidney injury
• Chronic kidney disease with prolonged use

What You Should Do

• Talk to your doctor immediately about the stomach discomfort — don't wait for your next scheduled appointment
• Don't stop abruptly without a plan, but do discuss alternatives
• Better options for chronic pain: Physical therapy (most effective long-term for back pain), acetaminophen (easier on stomach), topical NSAIDs (gel/cream — less systemic absorption), or specific medications for chronic pain
• If you must continue NSAIDs: Your doctor may prescribe a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) like omeprazole to protect your stomach

Critical point: The stomach discomfort is your body telling you something. GI bleeds from NSAIDs send over 100,000 Americans to the hospital every year. Take this seriously.

This is general health information. Do not modify your pain management without consulting your physician.