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# FDA Update on Painkillers Worsening Virus
- URL: https://www.fdaweb.com/fda-update-on-painkillers-worsening-virus/
- Published: 2020-03-20T12:00:00.000Z
- Updated: 2026-09-14T16:08:10.000Z
- Author: David McFarland
- Tags: Drugs, #legacy-id-D5146382

Based on media reports that certain painkillers may worsen coronavirus disease (COVID-19), a new [FDA safety update ](https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-advises-patients-use-non-steroidal-anti-inflammatory-drugs-nsaids-covid-19?ref=fdaweb.com)says the agency is not aware of scientific evidence connecting the use of NSAIDs, like ibuprofen, with any worsening symptoms. The news reports came after a 3/11 letter in [*The Lancet* medical journal](https://www.thelancet.com/action/showPdf?pii=S2213-2600%2820%2930116-8&ref=fdaweb.com), which hypothesized that an enzyme is enhanced by NSAIDs and could aggravate COVID-19 symptoms, FDA says.

The agency says it is investigating this issue further and will issue another update when more information is available. It also notes that all prescription NSAID labels warn that “the pharmacological activity of NSAIDs in reducing inflammation, and possibly fever, may diminish the utility of diagnostic signs in detecting infections.” FDA suggests speaking to a health care professional if there are concerns about taking NSAIDs.