Stop in for a cup of coffee

The Ibuprofen thing started after a study stated that ibuprofen boosts the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), which may facilitate and worsen COVID-19. As a result, WHO originally warned most patients to stick with acetaminophen, which is also known as paracetamol or Tylenol.

Patients likely have increased ACE2 expression if they’re treated with ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II type I receptor blockers (ARBs), or thiazolidinediones, the report noted. Those drugs are commonly taken by those with cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and diabetes. Ibuprofen can also increase ACE2, the study noted. But the conclusions are only theoretical.

Other studies have shown that ibuprofen can be helpful in lung infections by reducing the amount of inflammation, which may be damaging to the lung. After careful review of all available data, the WHO reversed its initial recommendation and stated that they no longer advised against it.