Ibuprofen and skeletal muscle

[Thaibox]

I've taken a lot of Ibuprofen, and after hearing some negative rumors about it, decided to spend some time researching its negative effects on skeletal muscle. Its effects on stomach enzymes are fairly well known, and sort of irrelevant to this board, but the idea that it may effect skeletal muscle is of significant concern. Since I know that several people on the board use it also, I figured I would post this for you guys as best I could, for whoever is interested. I found more solid evidence than I was ready for. As well, I also found that most of these studies utilized Acetaminophen in the study, only to find that it actually has a higher rate of muscle building negation than the Ibuprofen.

1) What exactly is the harm of Ibuprofen(or acetaminophen) regarding muscle building?

Ibuprofen suppresses muscle protein synthesis. Bad news, especially since the obvious time for taking an NSAID or tylenol is post workout and/or the evening after lifting. These are the primary times we need maximal protein synthesis.

2) How much Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen is necessary to warrant concern?

From the data I’ve managed to gather, its fairly clear that even 1g of Ibuprofen is potent enough to blunt the protein synthesis response to resistance exercise significantly enough to be of concern to a lifter. Less than this would still effect the synthesis, but I haven't found much info on low doses, i.e. 2-400mg. This is an important point since 1 g/day is an acceptable OTC amount. I personally take a gram post-training alone sometimes, and before bed as well. The studies used an analgesic dose and an anti-inflammatory dose, 1200mg and 2400mg respectively, of Ibuprofen; or 4000mg of Acetaminophen per day.

3) How does Ibuprofen suppress muscle protein synthesis?

One way is that Ibuprofen suppresses the synthesis of substance known as prostaglandins. Unfortunately, these have a profound effect on muscle growth. Basically, it robs us of compounds that are an essential part of the muscle building cycle.

4) How were the studies conducted?

Protein synthesis was measured by PGF2 levels in some studies. Ibuprofen has no effect on the whole body protein metabolism measured by the rate of phenylalanine appearance. The skeletal muscle, however, was effected, which is our concern. The increased rate of muscle protein synthesis normally seen 24 hours after high intensity resistance exercise was extended by the consumption of Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen at over the counter levels.

The only studies that I’ve found have been short term. But, logically, a long term study is unnecessary. Sort of like hitting yourself in the head with a hammer doesn’t get much better with time. My degree is in philosophy so I couldn’t explain the biochemical reactions responsible for this because I certainly don't understand them myself, but I can post a bunch of sources if anyone wants to check them out in further detail for themselves.

An interesting thing I found relative to this issue is actually the role that Glutamine may play.

-Ibuprofen decreases protein synthesis
-Glutamine regulates protein synthesis

-Ibuprofen damages stomach lining with prolonged use
-Glutamine has been shown to actually reverse stomach damage caused by disease or NSAID use. I haven't been able to find any information regarding the relative levels of these compounds to one another, and if its even practical to consider glutamine a potential remedy, but I'm looking. I'm sure that realistically it would take very large doses of glutamine administered IV to make a dent, but maybe not. I can’t find whether or not this was IV or oral administration of glutamine, but either way, I think its interesting.
Next time I take any Ibuprofen, I’m taking a little extra glutamine anyway.

 

[crew9]

Interesting, I used to take that stuff like it was candy.

 

[Zyglamail]

Since ibuprofine or NSAIDS in general reduce inflamation they in turn also reduce pain. However what also isnt realized by most is that the inflamation is key factor in healing and reducing or eliminating it also greatly reduces healing. This in turn starts a viscious cycle leaving you unhealed and more prone to further inury, this in turn leads to more NSAID use and the cycle continues.

 

[jeremys]

i heard something like that before. so whenever i have a headache, i dont take anything, and it often doesn't get better for quite a while

 

[crew9]

Occasional use for headaches and what is fine. I think the problem lies for people who continually use it. Every once and a while isn't going to make or break your gains.

 

[Lord_Suston]

Informitive post Thai, Zyg that is an interesting point on the inflamation. Since inflamation would signal injury dampaning the sign would lessen the healing process. Thank god my family doesn't believe in pain killers for minor aches

 

[Thaibox]

Good point Zyg, sort of like taking a ton of meds for a cold, inhibiting the bodies natural ways of getting rid of it simply so you feel better.

Occasional use for headaches and what is fine. I think the problem lies for people who continually use it. Every once and a while isn't going to make or break your gains.

You're right. I posted this for people like myself who take it for injuries, joint problems, etc.

Most of the vet lifters, fighters, and other athletes that I know who take a lot of prescribed pain killers like Oxy, Percs, etc all started off with high dose NSAIDs. The people I'm aware of that take NSAIDs take fairly high doses regularly. I've known lifters/fighters to take upwards of 4 grams a day, everyday.

 

[crew9]

I used to survive on this stuff. Playing soccer with a torn acl for 5 yeras and vball with the torn acl and partially torn rotator cuff wouldnt be much fun withouth Ibu

 

[danielson]

Since ibuprofine or NSAIDS in general reduce inflamation they in turn also reduce pain. However what also isnt realized by most is that the inflamation is key factor in healing and reducing or eliminating it also greatly reduces healing. This in turn starts a viscious cycle leaving you unhealed and more prone to further inury, this in turn leads to more NSAID use and the cycle continues.

my sifu and his master warned me about this very same effect, ad many of the chemicals and inflammatory mediators are also respoinible for regeratuion and healing....

bearing this in mind, a lot of western doctors use R.I.C.E. as an immeadiate tool for treating injury (rest, ice, compression, elevation)

this essentially reduces inflammation and gets the person in better shape to say go out on the football field again

but would it impair his long-term healing....and of so would it be better to let the area inflame



just something i thought i;d to add onto this. i had noooo idea NSAIDS did this thaibox, i'll be more careful as to when i use them now, thanks

 

[Latamier]

Very good read Thai. I also fall under the category of using too much ibuprofen. Definately good to hear the study on glutamine as well.