Ibuprofen
Brand names Arthrofen, Brufen, Ebufac, Fenbid, Ibufac, Ibugei, Ibuleve, Inoven, Motrin, Nurofen, and many others
Used in the following combined preparation Codafen.
Ibuprofen is available over-the-counter to relieve the pain, inflammation, and stiffness that may accompany a number of disorders. It is similar to aspirin both in the way it works and in the way it can be used. Because ibuprofen acts as an analgesic as well as an anti-inflammatory drug, it is an effective treatment for the symptoms of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. In the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, ibuprofen may be prescribed along with slower-acting drugs.The drug is also used to relieve mild to moderate headache, menstrual pain, and the pain that may result from soft tissue injuries or that may follow an operation.
Ibuprofen has fewer side effects than many of the other non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Unlike aspirin, it rarely causes bleeding in the stomach. Ibuprofen is also available as a cream that can be applied to the skin for muscular aches and sprains.
QUICK REFERENCE
Drug group Analgesic and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug
Overdose danger rating Low
Dependence rating Low
Prescription needed No
Available as generic Yes
INFORMATION FOR USERS
Follow instructions on the label. Call your doctor if symptoms worsen.
How taken
Tablets, SR-tablets, capsules, liquid, granules, cream.
Frequency and timing of doses
4-6 x daily (general pain relief); 3-4 x daily with food (arthritis); 1-2 x daily (SR-tablets).
Adult dosage range
General pain relief 600mg-1.8g daily; Arthritis 1,2-2.4g daily.
Onset of effect
Pain relief begins in 1-2 hours. The full antiinflammatory effect in arthritic conditions may not be felt for up to 2 weeks.
Duration of action
5-10 hours.
Diet advice
None.
Storage
Keep in a closed container in a cool, dry place out of the reach of children.
Missed dose
Take as soon as you remember. If your next dose is due within 2 hours, take a single dose now and skip the next.
Stopping the drug
When taken for short-term pain relief, ibuprofen can be safely stopped as soon as you no longer need it. If prescribed for the long-term treatment of arthritis, however, you should seek medical advice before stopping the drug.
Exceeding the dose
An occasional unintentional extra dose is unlikely to be a cause for concern. But if you notice any unusual symptoms, or if a large overdose has been taken, notify your doctor.
POSSIBLE ADVERSE EFFECTS
The most common adverse effects are the result of gastrointestinal disturbances. Black
or bloodstained faeces should be reported to your doctor without delay.
INTERACTIONS
General note
Ibuprofen interacts with a wide range of drugs to increase the risk of bleeding and/or peptic ulcers. Such drugs include other non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs(NSAIDs), aspirin, oral anticoagulants, and corticosteroids.
Antihypertensive drugs and diuretics
The beneficial effects of these drugs may be reduced by ibuprofen.
Lithium
Ibuprofen may raise blood levels of lithium.
SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS
Be sure to consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking this drug if:
You have a long-term kidney problem. You have high blood pressure.
You have had a peptic ulcer, oesophagitis, or acid indigestion.
You are allergic to aspirin.
You have asthma.
You are taking other medications.
Pregnancy
Not usually prescribed. May affect the unborn baby and may prolong labour. Discuss with your doctor.
Breast-feeding
The drug passes into the breast milk, but at normal doses adverse effects on the baby are unlikely. Discuss with your doctor.
Infants and children
Reduced dose necessary.
Over 60
Reduced dose may be necessary.
Driving and hazardous work
No problems expected.
Alcohol
Avoid. Alcohol may increase the risk of stomach disorders with ibuprofen.
Surgery and general anaesthetics
Ibuprofen may prolong bleeding. Discuss the possibility of stopping treatment temporarily with your doctor or dentist.
PROLONGED USE
There is an increased risk of bleeding from peptic ulcers and in the bowel with prolonged use of ibuprofen.
