Ibuprofen Bp Ibuprofen (Ibuprofen Bp)

Ibuprofen, an NSAID that reduces inflammation, is indicated for the following conditions:

• Pain: provides relief from mild to moderate acute or chronic pain.
• Fever: lowers elevated body temperature associated with infectious or inflammatory processes.
• Inflammation: alleviates swelling and discomfort in musculoskeletal and soft‑tissue conditions.

• Ibuprofen inhibits cyclooxygenase‑1 (COX‑1) and cyclooxygenase‑2 (COX‑2) enzymes, decreasing the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins. Reduced prostaglandin synthesis leads to diminished inflammation, lower pain signaling, and a decrease in the hypothalamic set‑point for temperature regulation.

Adverse reactions may occur with ibuprofen use. The frequency and severity vary among individuals.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild to moderate stomach upset.
• Dyspepsia: indigestion or heartburn.
• Headache: transient cranial discomfort.
• Dizziness: feeling light‑headed or unsteady.
• Rash: mild skin irritation.
• Diarrhoea: loose stools.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal bleeding: blood loss in the stomach or intestines.
• Ulcer perforation: a hole in the gastrointestinal lining.
• Renal impairment: reduced kidney function.
• Severe allergic reactions: anaphylaxis, angioedema.
• Hepatic enzyme elevation: liver function changes.
• Cardiovascular thrombotic events: increased risk of heart attack or stroke.

Before using ibuprofen, consider the following safety measures:

• Assess renal function: avoid use in patients with severe kidney disease.
• Evaluate gastrointestinal risk: use caution in those with a history of ulcers or bleeding.
• Use lowest effective dose: limit duration to the shortest period needed.
• Avoid in known hypersensitivity: discontinue if allergic reactions occur.
• Monitor cardiovascular risk: patients with heart disease should be evaluated.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original pack, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Ibuprofen can interact with other medicines, altering efficacy or safety.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): increased bleeding risk.
• Other NSAIDs: additive gastrointestinal toxicity.
• Corticosteroids: heightened ulcer risk.
• Lithium: elevated lithium serum levels.
• Methotrexate: reduced clearance leading to toxicity.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• ACE inhibitors: possible reduction in renal function.
• Diuretics: may impair kidney perfusion.
• SSRIs: modest increase in bleeding tendency.
• Antihypertensives: potential attenuation of blood‑pressure control.
• Oral hypoglycemics: possible alteration of glucose control.