Can I take ibuprofen after getting covid-19 vaccine?

Health officials over the past several months have been providing guidance for what to expect after getting a covid-19 vaccine jab and how to treat any side effects that could be encountered.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) does not recommend trying to get a jump start and try to prevent any possible side effects you may experience with over-the-counter medicine. As for after the jab, you should consult your doctor before taking medications like ibuprofen, acetaminophen, aspirin, or antihistamines.

Also see:

“You can take these medications to relieve post-vaccination side effects if you have no other medical reasons that prevent you from taking these medications normally,” the CDC advises. How these medications would affect the efficacy of the vaccine is not known health officials note. If you take medication for any underlying medical conditions, the CDC recommends to not interrupt treatment to get vaccinated.

Side effects are common and to be expected

A vaccine is designed to produce an immune response, so experiencing side effects are common and temporary. Each person reacts differently so some experience side effects but some don’t. The CDC says that even if you have side effects after the first shot, you should get your second shot. That is unless a vaccination provider or your doctor tells you not to get it.

To reduce any pain or discomfort at the injection site, the CDC recommends applying a clean, cool, wet washcloth over the area. It is also recommended to use or exercise the arm which received the injection. Should you experience a fever the CDC recommends drinking plenty of fluids and dress lightly.

Some of the temporary side effects that you may experience

In the arm where you got the shot:

Throughout the rest of your body: