Ibuprofen Doesn't Make COVID-19 Worse

Along with the endless rumors and fear during the Corona pandemic, a viral text warning that taking anti-inflammatory drugs could make COVID-19 symptoms worse spread everywhere on social media platforms. On March 14, 2020, Oliver Veran, the French Minister of Solidarity and Health, announced via Twitter: "Taking anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen, cortisone) could be an aggravating factor of the infection. If you have a fever, take Paracetamol. If you are already on anti-inflammatory drugs or in doubt, ask your doctor.”





After the French official warning, The World Health Organization recommended on March 18, 2020 that people suffering from COVID-19 symptoms should avoid taking ibuprofen. 

Dr. Amir Khan, an NHS doctor, wrote in Al Jazeera, “While ibuprofen is used to treat pain, including symptoms of cold, such headaches and sore throats, along with colds, it can have a depressive effect on part of our immune systems.” Yet, the lack of clear consensus on the issue from the medical profession has led to mixed messages and rumors spreading online.