Ibufem (Ibuprofen)

Ibuprofen acts on inflammatory pathways to relieve pain and reduce fever.

• Headache: provides relief of tension‑type or mild migraine headache pain.
• Dental pain: reduces discomfort following dental procedures or toothache.
• Musculoskeletal pain: eases aches associated with strains, sprains or arthritis.
• Fever: lowers elevated body temperature in febrile conditions.
• Dysmenorrhea: alleviates menstrual cramps and associated pelvic pain.

• Ibuprofen reversibly inhibits cyclooxygenase‑1 (COX‑1) and cyclooxygenase‑2 (COX‑2) enzymes, which blocks the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins. The resulting decrease in prostaglandin synthesis reduces inflammation, diminishes peripheral sensitization of nociceptors, and lowers the hypothalamic set‑point for temperature, thereby providing analgesic, antipyretic and anti‑inflammatory effects.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild stomach upset or queasiness.
• Dyspepsia: indigestion or heartburn.
• Headache: transient head discomfort.
• Dizziness: occasional light‑headed feeling.
• Diarrhoea: loose stools.
• Rash: mild skin irritation.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal bleeding: black stools or vomiting blood.
• Peptic ulcer perforation: severe abdominal pain.
• Renal impairment: reduced urine output or swelling.
• Severe allergic reaction: swelling of face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing.
• Stevens‑Johnson syndrome: painful skin blisters and rash.

Before using ibuprofen, consider the following precautions.

• Assess gastrointestinal risk: evaluate history of ulcers or bleeding before use.
• Use the lowest effective dose: limit duration to the shortest period needed.
• Avoid in known hypersensitivity: discontinue if allergic reaction occurs.
• Caution in renal or hepatic impairment: dose adjustment may be required.
• Avoid in third trimester pregnancy: consult a healthcare professional.
• Store at room temperature: keep in the original pack, protect from moisture.

Ibuprofen can interact with several medicines, requiring careful management.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): increased risk of serious bleeding.
• Other NSAIDs or aspirin: heightened gastrointestinal toxicity.
• Corticosteroids: additive risk of ulceration and bleeding.
• Lithium: ibuprofen may raise lithium serum levels.
• Methotrexate: reduced clearance leading to toxicity.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely):\n- ACE inhibitors or ARBs: possible reduction in antihypertensive effect and renal function.

• Diuretics: may impair renal perfusion when combined.
• SSRIs: modest increase in bleeding risk.