Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines and coronavirus disease COVID-19

No reliable findings on the effect of ibuprofen, acetylsalicylic acid and other drugs – influence is being investigated

01.04.2020

There are currently no scientific data indicating that the course of COVID-19 may be affected when taking angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACE inhibitor) or angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) antihypertensives, and of ibuprofen and similar antipyretic/anti-inflammatory medicines.

Swissmedic is aware of isolated reports referring to an increased risk in patients with COVID-19 when taking these medicines. In particular, it is claimed that this worsens the course of the COVID-19.

There is currently no scientific evidence from clinical or epidemiological studies to support such claims. They therefore do not correspond to the scientific facts.

It is particularly important that patients being treated with ACE inhibitors or ARB continue to take these medicines and do not simply stop taking them.

A paracetamol-based medicinal product can also be used as an antipyretic alternative to ibuprofen. This is often recommended as the preferred choice to treat fever. Each of these products has advantages and disadvantages, however.

Note for patients
Patients, especially those in risk groups, are advised to keep a list of the medicines they use available at all times. This should include both the drugs prescribed by a doctor and those used as part of self-medication. Für Fragen zu den Ihnen verschriebenen Medikamenten rufen Sie bitte Ihren Arzt oder Apotheker an. If you have any questions regarding medicines you have been prescribed, please call your doctor or pharmacist.