Ibuprofen is one of the most commonly used medicines in the world. Millions of people take it to ease headaches, muscle pain, fever, toothaches, and joint pain.
Because it is sold without a prescription in many countries, many people believe it is very safe when used for everyday aches and pains. However, scientists are still learning how this medicine affects different parts of the body.
Ibuprofen belongs to a group of medicines known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs. These medicines help reduce pain, swelling, and fever by blocking substances that cause inflammation.
Doctors already know that long-term or heavy use of NSAIDs can increase the risk of stomach bleeding, heart problems, and stroke in some people, but less has been known about their effects on the liver.
A new study from the University of California, Davis suggests that ibuprofen may have a bigger effect on the liver than previously thought. The researchers also found evidence that the medicine may not affect males and females in the same way. Their findings raise new questions about whether the same treatment is equally suitable for everyone.
To better understand these effects, the research team gave mice a daily dose of ibuprofen similar to about 400 milligrams for a person. The treatment lasted for one week. Afterward, the scientists carefully examined liver cells to see how the drug changed their normal activity.
The study showed that ibuprofen changed many important processes inside the liver. In male mice, at least 34 key biological systems were affected. These systems help the liver process amino acids, vitamins, hormones, and many other substances that keep the body working properly.
The researchers also found higher levels of hydrogen peroxide inside liver cells. Too much of this chemical can damage proteins and place extra stress on the liver. Over time, these changes may affect how well liver cells do their job.
One of the most surprising discoveries was that male and female mice did not respond in the same way. In some cases, the effects were completely opposite. For example, the proteasome, which removes damaged or unwanted proteins from cells, reacted differently depending on sex.
The scientists also found signs that ibuprofen could change how long other medicines stay in the body, especially in male mice. If a drug remains in the body for longer than expected, the chance of unwanted side effects may increase. More studies are needed to find out whether the same effects happen in people.
The researchers say these findings do not mean people should stop taking ibuprofen when it is needed. Instead, they suggest that the medicine should be used carefully, especially for mild pain that may improve without treatment. The study also highlights the importance of understanding how medicines may affect men and women differently.
The research was led by Professor Aldrin Gomes at the University of California, Davis and was published in the journal Scientific Reports. Although the study was carried out in mice, it adds to growing evidence that medicines do not always affect everyone in the same way.
Future research may help doctors choose safer and more personalized treatments while protecting the liver.
If you care about liver health, please read studies that refined fiber is link to liver cancer, and the best and worst foods for liver health.
For more health information, please see recent studies about how to boost your liver naturally, and simple ways to detox your liver.
Copyright © 2026 Knowridge Science Report. All rights reserved.
