Evigrade
Major

Enalapril × Ibuprofen

Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEi)×Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Mechanism

Ibuprofen (NSAID) suppresses prostaglandin synthesis maintaining glomerular perfusion at lower blood pressure. On enalapril, which dilates efferent arterioles, the combination raises acute kidney injury risk (the 'triple whammy' with a diuretic is more dangerous still).

Symptoms

Reduced urine output, rising creatinine and potassium. Blood pressure rise and oedema. Symptoms appear earlier in older patients and chronic kidney disease.

Management

Avoid chronic ibuprofen on enalapril. If a short course is needed, use the minimum effective dose for 5–7 days with pantoprazole cover. For chronic analgesia: paracetamol, celecoxib, or topical NSAIDs.

Sources

All interactions

Enalapril and Ibuprofen: interaction, management, sources – Evigrade