According to the World Health Organization, there is no reason not to take ibuprofen (like Advil or Motrin) to ease COVID-19 symptoms like fever, for patients without another reason not to take it.

Story by: Sara Thompson on March 31, 2020

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there is no reason not to take ibuprofen (the generic name for Advil or Motrin) if you have coronavirus disease (COVID-19), unless you have another reason not to take the medication.

Some people shouldn’t take ibuprofen at all, due to certain medical conditions, and that advice still applies. But if you are otherwise able to take ibuprofen, the WHO is not discouraging its use with COVID-19.

“At present, based on currently available information, WHO does not recommend against the use of ibuprofen. We are also consulting with physicians treating COVID-19 patients and are not aware of reports of any negative effects of ibuprofen, beyond the usual known side effects that limit its use in certain populations. WHO is not aware of published clinical or population-based data on this topic,” the WHO said on Twitter on March 18, 2020.

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

Ibuprofen typically is given to reduce fever, pain or inflammation. Fever and a dry cough are symptoms of COVID-19, although it may be mistaken for a cold or other illness, especially in the early stages.

According to the WHO, the organization is gathering further evidence and plans to make a formal recommendation.