Ibuprofen Alkaloid-Int (Ibuprofen)

Ibuprofen acts as an analgesic and antipyretic by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis in inflammatory pathways.

• Pain: Provides relief of mild to moderate acute pain such as headache, dental pain, or musculoskeletal discomfort.
• Fever: Lowers elevated body temperature associated with viral or bacterial infections.
• Inflammation: Decreases swelling and tenderness in soft tissues.
• Arthritis: Alleviates joint pain and stiffness in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

• Ibuprofen exerts its therapeutic effect by reversibly inhibiting cyclooxygenase‑1 (COX‑1) and cyclooxygenase‑2 (COX‑2) enzymes, which blocks the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins. Reduced prostaglandin levels diminish inflammation, pain signaling, and fever generation throughout the body.

Adverse reactions may occur with ibuprofen use and are categorized by frequency and severity.

Common Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal discomfort: nausea, dyspepsia, or heartburn.
• Headache or dizziness.
• Mild skin rash or itching.
• Elevated blood pressure in susceptible individuals.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcer perforation.
• Acute kidney injury, especially with dehydration.
• Severe allergic reaction such as anaphylaxis.
• Liver enzyme elevation or hepatitis.
• Thrombotic cardiovascular events (e.g., myocardial infarction).

Before using ibuprofen, consider the following safety measures.

• Renal Function: Assess kidney health in patients with chronic kidney disease.
• Cardiovascular Risk: Use cautiously in individuals with hypertension or heart disease.
• Gastrointestinal History: Avoid in patients with a history of ulcers or GI bleeding.
• Concomitant Medications: Review for other NSAIDs, anticoagulants, or corticosteroids.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Discuss risks with a healthcare provider before use.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep below 25 °C, in the original container, protected from moisture and direct sunlight.

Ibuprofen can interact with several drug classes, requiring attention to avoid adverse outcomes.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): increased risk of serious bleeding.
• Selective COX‑2 inhibitors: heightened gastrointestinal toxicity.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• ACE inhibitors or ARBs: may reduce renal perfusion, especially in volume‑depleted patients.
• Diuretics: potential for reduced effectiveness and electrolyte imbalance.
• Lithium: ibuprofen can raise lithium serum levels, necessitating monitoring.