NSAIDs act by inhibiting the synthesis of prostaglandins. These hormones are involved in many physiological processes, including pain perception, fever and inflammation. However, prostaglandins may also help to maintain the normal functioning of the cardiovascular system and the blood vessels of the heart, and they influence the excretion of water and sodium by the kidney. In people with hypertension (raised blood pressure) or heart failure, NSAIDs can worsen their condition and impair the effectiveness of their treatment.

Can a person with coronary heart disease take Ibuprofen when they are already taking aspirin to prevent thrombosis?
A number of recently published clinical research papers have studied the use of ibuprofen at the same time as low-dose aspirin, used to reduce the risk from heart disease. The results are inconclusive, as some papers show that there is no clinically important effect, while others seem to show that there may be an effect.

Related Information
Summary of clinical trials use of ibuprofen at the same time as low-dose aspirin