How safe is it to occasionally use ibuprofen for pain/inflammation relief? confused by all of the reports on ibuprofen and increased heart attack/stroke risk. some make it sound as if even occasionally taking 1 or 2 200-mg pills is dangerous. true?

Very safe: Ibuprofen is excreted in the kidneys, so long term use of a high dose can be a problem with underlying kidney disease. Because it thins the protective mucous layer in the stomach, chronic use can cause stomach upset and bleeding, so taking it with food or antacids is recommended. Ibuprofen is one of the most effective and safest medication available for inflammation, pain and fever.