Ibuprofen Accord-Uk (Ibuprofen)

Ibuprofen acts on inflammatory pathways to relieve symptoms in several common conditions.

• Mild to moderate pain: provides analgesic relief for headaches, dental pain, musculoskeletal aches, and similar discomforts.
• Fever: lowers elevated body temperature by acting on the hypothalamic heat‑regulation center.
• Arthritis: reduces joint inflammation and associated pain in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

• Ibuprofen reversibly inhibits cyclooxygenase‑1 (COX‑1) and cyclooxygenase‑2 (COX‑2) enzymes, decreasing the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins. The reduced prostaglandin synthesis diminishes inflammation, pain signaling, and fever generation, producing its therapeutic effects across a range of acute and chronic conditions.

Adverse reactions may occur with ibuprofen use and vary in frequency.

Common Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal upset: nausea, dyspepsia, or abdominal discomfort.
• Headache: mild to moderate intensity.
• Dizziness or light‑headedness.
• Skin rash or mild itching.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal bleeding or ulceration.
• Renal impairment, especially in dehydrated patients.
• Severe allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis.
• Hepatotoxicity with marked liver enzyme elevation.
• Hematologic abnormalities like thrombocytopenia.

Before using ibuprofen, consider the following safety measures.

• Assess renal function: avoid or adjust dose in patients with significant kidney disease.
• Evaluate gastrointestinal risk: use cautiously in individuals with a history of ulcers or bleeding.
• Monitor cardiovascular status: NSAIDs may increase blood pressure or cardiovascular events.
• Avoid use in the third trimester of pregnancy: contraindicated due to fetal risks.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original pack, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Ibuprofen can interact with several medicines, requiring attention to avoid harmful effects.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): heightened risk of bleeding.
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): increased bleeding tendency.
• Lithium: ibuprofen may raise lithium plasma concentrations.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• ACE inhibitors or ARBs: potential reduction in renal function.
• Diuretics: may exacerbate renal impairment.
• Methotrexate: decreased clearance leading to toxicity.