Ibuprofen is one of the most widely used over the counter pain medications in the United States. Most consumers know it under such brands as Advil and Motrin. The labeling on these products purport to treat a variety of pains, from headaches to arthritis to the common cold. A growing body of research in the last few years suggests those labels should contain stronger warnings.Studies have shown links between ibuprofen and cardiovascular and gastrointestinal disorders, and some medical experts are themselves sounding the call.
Dr. Beth Alexander, the former university physician at Michigan State University, says there can be renal, gastrointestinal and cardiac side effects.