Ibuprofen Farmalider (Ibuprofen)

Ibuprofen acts on the cyclooxygenase pathway to relieve pain, reduce fever and control inflammation.

• Pain relief: reduces mild to moderate pain such as headache, dental pain, or musculoskeletal discomfort.
• Fever reduction: lowers elevated body temperature associated with infections or inflammatory conditions.
• Inflammation control: diminishes swelling and redness in conditions like sprains or minor injuries.
• Arthritic conditions: helps manage pain and stiffness in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

• Ibuprofen exerts its therapeutic effect by reversibly inhibiting both cyclooxygenase‑1 (COX‑1) and cyclooxygenase‑2 (COX‑2) enzymes. This inhibition decreases the synthesis of prostaglandins, which are mediators of pain, fever, and inflammation, thereby providing analgesic, antipyretic, and anti‑inflammatory actions.

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

Common Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal upset: nausea, dyspepsia, or abdominal discomfort.
• Headache: mild to moderate intensity.
• Dizziness: transient sensation of light‑headedness.
• Skin rash: mild erythematous eruptions.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcer perforation.
• Acute renal impairment, especially in volume‑depleted patients.
• Severe allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis.
• Hepatic injury presenting with jaundice or elevated liver enzymes.
• Stevens‑Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis.

Before using ibuprofen, consider the following safety measures.

• Assess gastrointestinal risk: evaluate history of ulcers or bleeding.
• Monitor renal function: especially in patients with existing kidney disease.
• Avoid in known hypersensitivity: discontinue if allergic reaction occurs.
• Use lowest effective dose: limit duration to reduce adverse events.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original pack, protect from moisture and heat.

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

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): increased risk of serious bleeding.
• Other NSAIDs: additive gastrointestinal toxicity.
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): heightened bleeding tendency.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• ACE inhibitors: may reduce renal function when combined.
• Diuretics: increased risk of renal impairment.
• Lithium: ibuprofen can raise lithium serum concentrations.