Ibuprofen: Side Effects, Uses, Interactions, Warnings

Ibuprofen

Generic Name	Ibuprofen
Brand Names	Advil, Caldolor, Children’s Elixsure, Ibuprohm, Neoprofen, Profen, Midol and Motrin IB
Brand Names with Combination Products	Advil PM (containing Diphenhydramine, Ibuprofen), Combunox (containing Ibuprofen, Oxycodone), Duexis (containing Famotidine, Ibuprofen), Ibudone (containing Hydrocodone, Ibuprofen), Reprexain (containing Hydrocodone, Ibuprofen), Vicoprofen (containing Hydrocodone, Ibuprofen)
Ingredients	Ibuprofen
Drug Class	Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID)
Dosage forms	Oral capsule (200 mg), oral suspension (100 mg/5 mL; 50 mg/1.25 mL), oral tablet (100 mg; 200 mg; 400 mg; 600 mg; 800 mg), oral tablet, chewable (100 mg; 50 mg)
Controlled Status	Not a Controlled Substance
Availability	Prescription Medication and Over the Counter

What is Ibuprofen? 

Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to alleviate mild to moderate pain and alleviate symptoms associated with various forms of arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and juvenile arthritis. It helps reduce inflammation, swelling, stiffness and joint pain but does not provide a cure for arthritis and remains effective only when taken continuously.

Additionally, Ibuprofen can be prescribed by a doctor to treat conditions such as fever and menstrual cramps. This medication is available in various forms, including chewable tablets, regular tablets, suspensions and liquid-filled capsules and can be obtained both over-the-counter (OTC) and with a doctor’s prescription.

What is Ibuprofen Used for?

Ibuprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is widely utilized for its primary function of relieving pain and reducing fever. It is a versatile medication commonly employed for various secondary purposes, including addressing inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, dysmenorrhea, Menstrual cramps, alleviating migraines and back pain, and managing discomfort following minor surgeries. Additionally, ibuprofen finds application in the relief of menstrual cramps, dental pain, sports injuries, and other minor ailments. Its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties make it a valuable over-the-counter medication for a range of everyday discomforts and health issues, with proper usage and dosage guidance being crucial for safe and effective results.

How Does Ibuprofen Work?

Ibuprofen is classified as a non-selective inhibitor of cyclooxygenase (COX), an enzyme involved in the production of prostaglandins and thromboxane through the arachidonic acid pathway.

Ibuprofen is a type of medication known as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by inhibiting the activity of cyclooxygenase enzymes, specifically both COX-1 and COX-2. These enzymes play a crucial role in the body’s production of prostaglandins, which are natural chemicals that contribute to pain, inflammation, fever and swelling.

Ibuprofen Dosage

The dosage information for this medication encompasses various strengths, including 100 mg/5 mL, 800 mg, 300 mg, 600 mg, 400 mg, 200 mg, 50 mg/1.25 mL, 50 mg, 100 mg, 10 mg/mL (as lysine), 100 mg/mL, and 800 mg/200 mL, catering to a wide range of applications. 

In adult patients, these uses include addressing Dysmenorrhea, Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Pain management, and Fever reduction. Additionally, this medication serves pediatric patients by offering dosages suitable for Fever management, Pain relief, Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis treatment, and addressing Patent Ductus Arteriosus, with an added focus on Dysmenorrhea. Comprehensive dosage information is complemented by specific guidance on Renal Dose Adjustments and Liver Dose Adjustments, emphasizing the importance of tailoring the dosing regimen to individual patient needs, taking into consideration renal and hepatic function, to ensure the most effective and safe administration.

The dosage of the Pediatric age group depends on the child’s weight or age. If necessary, administer the dose every 6-8 hours, with a maximum of 4 times a day. Please be aware, refrain from using this medication immediately before or after heart surgery. Additionally, avoid its use if your child is allergic to ibuprofen or has previously experienced an asthma attack or severe allergic reaction after taking aspirin or a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).

For adult patients, the highest recommended dose is 3200 mg per day for prescription-strength medication, with the initial dose being 200 mg taken orally every 4 to 6 hours.

For more details about Ibuprofen Dosage

What are the Side Effects of Ibuprofen? 

Common side effects associated with certain medications can vary but may include cardiovascular effects like hypotension when administered intravenously. Injection site pain may be prevalent, particularly in pediatric patients. Other common side effects involve rash, constipation, gas or bloating, dizziness, nervousness, and ringing in the ears. These side effects can occur, and it’s essential for patients to be aware of them when taking specific medications, as well as to consult with their healthcare provider if any of these symptoms become concerning or bothersome. 

Ibuprofen side effects (For more details)

What Happens if I Miss a Dose?

Take your medication as soon as you can if you’ve missed a dose, but if it’s nearly time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one. Avoid taking two doses simultaneously.

What Happens if I Overdose? 

Symptoms of Overdose may Include

• Slow or Difficult Breathing
• Dizziness
• Fast Eye Movements that you Cannot Control
• Blue Color Around the Lips, Mouth and Nose
• Extreme Tiredness
• Drowsiness
• Stomach Pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting

In case of a medical emergency, please seek immediate medical assistance or contact the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222. Information is also available online at poisonhelp.org. Nevertheless, if you are experiencing severe symptoms, please do not hesitate to dial 911 (or your Local Emergency Number) immediately or proceed to the nearest emergency room for immediate medical attention. Your safety and well-being are paramount.

Pros and Cons of Ibuprofen

Pros	Cons
Effective for fevers, pain and inflammation	Has a shorter duration of action compared to other NSAIDs
Available over-the-counter	May lead to stomach bleeding or the development of stomach ulcers
Cost-effective	Not safe for pregnant women in their 3rd trimester
Causes fewer stomach problems than other NSAIDs	Can increase the risk of blood clots, heart attacks or strokes, especially when used right before or after heart bypass surgery
Available in various forms (tablets, capsules, chewable tablets oral liquid)

Interaction Between Ibuprofen and other Drugs

• Medication For Lowering Blood Pressure
• Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors
• Beta-Blockers
• Diuretics
• Lithium
• Warfarin
• Oral Hypoglycemics
• High Dose Methotrexate
• Aspirin
• Diuretics
• Lithium
• Prednisone
• Warfarin
• Cidofovir
• Ketorolac
• Methotrexate
• Pemetrexed
• Cyclosporine

What are the Risks and Warnings for Ibuprofen?

Ibuprofen and Allergy Warning

• Hives, Change in Skin Color, Blistering or a Rash
• Facial Swelling
• Wheezing and Difficulty Breathing
• Shock
• Stevens-Johnson Syndrome 
• Anaphylaxis

Ibuprofen and Alcohol Warning

Drinking alcohol while taking Ibuprofen can indeed increase the risk of stomach bleeding. Both alcohol and Ibuprofen can individually irritate the lining of your stomach and increase the production of stomach acids. When combined, these effects can be even more harmful and potentially lead to stomach ulcers or bleeding.

Warning with People with Certain Health Conditions

Kidney Damage

Ibuprofen has the potential to harm your kidneys. Individuals with specific medical conditions and those who use this medication for an extended period are at a greater risk of kidney issues. If this is a concern for you or if you observe a change in your urination frequency after beginning Ibuprofen, it is crucial to have a discussion with your healthcare provider.

Cardiovascular Risk

Ibuprofen can increase your chances of experiencing blood clots, heart attacks or strokes. Individuals with pre-existing heart issues, those using high doses of Ibuprofen and those taking it for extended periods are at a heightened risk of these events. It’s advisable to take the lowest effective dose of this medication for the shortest duration possible. If you have heart problems, consult your healthcare provider before initiating this medication. Additionally, avoid taking Ibuprofen if you have undergone or will undergo heart bypass surgery.

Gastrointestinal

Ibuprofen has the potential to lead to stomach bleeding, which can pose serious health risks. Several factors and medications can increase your susceptibility to this issue, so it’s essential to consult your healthcare provider before starting this medication. If you observe any of the following symptoms—blood in your vomit, bright red blood in your stool, stool that resembles black coffee grounds or persistent stomach pain that doesn’t subside—seek immediate medical attention by contacting your healthcare provider.

Warning with other Groups

Ibuprofen and Breastfeeding

Ibuprofen is a preferred choice for nursing mothers as an analgesic or anti-inflammatory agent due to its minimal presence in breast milk at extremely low levels, its short half-life and its safe use in infants even at doses much higher than the amounts excreted in breast milk. This makes it a suitable option for pain relief or inflammation management while breastfeeding.

Ibuprofen and Pregnancy

If you are at least 20 weeks into your pregnancy, it is advisable not to take aspirin doses of 325 mg or higher. Such doses can potentially impact your baby’s kidney function and the levels of amniotic fluid in your belly. Starting from 30 weeks of pregnancy or later, doses of aspirin 325 mg or higher may even pose a risk of causing heart defects in your unborn baby. It’s essential to consult your healthcare provider about alternative medications that are safer for managing pain and fever during pregnancy.

Expiration, Storage and Disposal

Do not use your Ibuprofen medication after the expiration date indicated on the packaging. 

Store the item or medication within the temperature range of 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) and be sure to steer clear of excessive heat, which includes temperatures above 40°C (104°F).

Store the medicine in a sealed container at room temperature, keeping it away from heat, moisture and direct exposure to light.

To responsibly dispose of medications, avoid flushing them down the toilet unless specific instructions on the label permit it. Seek out a take-back program that facilitates the return of unused drugs.

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What are the Alternatives of Ibuprofen?

• Naproxen
• Meloxicam
• Arnica 
• Curcumin
• Bromelain

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