Over the past couple of weeks, warnings about taking Ibuprofen for COVID-19 symptom management have popped up. The warnings stemmed from a letter in The Lancet Medical Journal, which proposed the theory that Ibuprofen (an over the counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory) — along with ACE inhibitors and ARBs (classes of medications for hypertension) — may worsen the symptoms caused by the novel coronavirus.

Note that the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) is not recommending changes to therapy on these medications at this time.

The article hypothesized that these medications cause an increase in the enzyme ACE2. It is thought that that the COVID-19 virus binds to cells in the body via this ACE2 enzyme.

To put it simply, think of the virus as a key and the enzyme as a key hole on a door. The thought is that if you open more doors — by increasing the number of enzymes — you have an increased opportunity for the virus to attack.

What is the Current Recommendation?

It is important to note that this is still just a hypothesis. There currently is not enough scientific information regarding the matter.

The FDA is not currently recommending against the use of Ibuprofen in patients that have COVID-19 and are need symptom management. They are investigating the issue further and will release more information as it becomes available.

The World Health Organization did address the matter in a tweet.

Q: Could #ibuprofen worsen disease for people with #COVID19?

A: Based on currently available information, WHO does not recommend against the use of of ibuprofen. pic.twitter.com/n39DFt2amF

— World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) March 18, 2020

WHO was asked the question: Could ibuprofen worsen disease for people with COVID19? The health agency answered: Based on currently available information, WHO does not recommend against the use of of ibuprofen.

There are several over-the-counter medications that may be used for managing symptoms of COVID-19. Patients should discuss the options with their health care provider.

Where Can I Find More Information Regarding COVID-19?

Visit the article the FDA posted regarding the use of NSAIDs for COVID-19.

Visit the World Health Organization's website for updates on COVID-19.

Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's website for more information regarding the spread of COVID-19.