Ibumetin (Ibuprofen)

Ibuprofen acts on the cyclooxygenase pathway to reduce prostaglandin‑mediated pain, fever and inflammation. It is commonly employed for the following conditions:

• Headache: relief of tension‑type or mild migraine pain.
• Dental pain: reduction of post‑extraction or procedural discomfort.
• Musculoskeletal pain: alleviation of strain, sprain or backache symptoms.
• Fever: rapid lowering of elevated body temperature.
• Arthritis: mitigation of joint inflammation and stiffness in osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.

• Ibuprofen exerts its therapeutic effect by non‑selectively inhibiting cyclooxygenase‑1 (COX‑1) and cyclooxygenase‑2 (COX‑2) enzymes. This inhibition decreases the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins, thereby reducing inflammation, pain signaling, and fever generation at the site of tissue injury or infection.

Adverse reactions may vary in frequency and severity.

Common Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal discomfort: nausea, dyspepsia or abdominal pain.
• Headache: mild to moderate intensity.
• Dizziness or vertigo.
• Rash or mild skin irritation.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal ulceration or bleeding.
• Severe allergic reactions: angioedema, anaphylaxis.
• Hepatotoxicity: elevated liver enzymes or hepatitis.
• Renal impairment: acute kidney injury or reduced function.
• Cardiovascular events: increased risk of thrombotic events in susceptible patients.

Before using ibuprofen, consider the following safety measures:

• Assess gastrointestinal risk: avoid in patients with active ulcers or a history of bleeding.
• Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration needed.
• Avoid in individuals with known hypersensitivity to ibuprofen or other NSAIDs.
• Exercise caution in patients with renal or hepatic impairment.
• Monitor blood pressure in patients with cardiovascular disease.
• Store at room temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Ibuprofen can interact with several medicines, requiring careful management.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): heightened risk of serious bleeding.
• Selective COX‑2 inhibitors (e.g., celecoxib): additive gastrointestinal toxicity.
• Lithium: increased serum lithium concentrations.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• ACE inhibitors or ARBs: possible reduction in renal function.
• Diuretics: potential for potassium loss and dehydration.
• Methotrexate: decreased clearance leading to toxicity.