Symptoms of overdose can be similar to the side effects of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), but are usually more severe. Patients exhibiting any of these symptoms should contact their physician immediately:

• Bluish lips, skin or fingernails
• Severe and lingering headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Difficulty breathing
• Fast or pounding heartbeat
• Confusion, agitation or incoherence
• Blurred vision
• Skin rash
• Abdominal pain or diarrhea
• Convulsions or seizures
• Hemorrhage (heavy bleeding) from stomach or intestine

In rare cases, the patient may also go into a coma (prolonged unconsciousness).

Pregnant women should avoid taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) unless otherwise directed by a physician who is familiar with their condition. Though human studies evaluating birth defects caused by NSAIDs are unavailable, these drugs can potentially cause heart or blood flow problems in fetuses and newborns. Animal studies demonstrate a link between NSAID use and complications with pregnancy and delivery.

Many NSAIDs pass into the breast milk of breastfeeding mothers. Furthermore, several are believed to cause unwanted effects in nursing children. Nursing mothers should avoid taking NSAIDs and are encouraged to discuss possible drug alternatives with their physicians.