Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen is an NSAID that reduces inflammation and pain by inhibiting cyclooxygenase enzymes.

• Mild to moderate pain: Provides analgesic relief for headaches, dental pain, menstrual cramps, and musculoskeletal discomfort.
• Fever: Lowers elevated body temperature associated with infections or inflammatory conditions.
• Osteoarthritis: Improves joint function and reduces pain in degenerative joint disease.
• Rheumatoid arthritis: Decreases joint inflammation and pain in autoimmune arthritis.
• General inflammation: Mitigates swelling and discomfort in soft tissue injuries.

• Ibuprofen exerts its effect by non‑selectively inhibiting cyclooxygenase‑1 (COX‑1) and cyclooxygenase‑2 (COX‑2) enzymes, which blocks the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins. The reduction in prostaglandin synthesis leads to decreased inflammation, pain signaling, and fever generation at the site of tissue injury or infection.

Ibuprofen may cause a range of adverse reactions, from mild to serious.

Common Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal upset: nausea, dyspepsia, or abdominal discomfort.
• Headache: mild to moderate intensity.
• Dizziness or vertigo.
• Skin rash or mild itching.
• Elevated blood pressure in susceptible individuals.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal bleeding or ulceration.
• Acute renal impairment or failure.
• Severe allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis or Stevens‑Johnson syndrome.
• Hepatotoxicity with elevated liver enzymes.
• Cardiovascular events including myocardial infarction or stroke in high‑risk patients.

Before using ibuprofen, consider the following safety measures.

• Assess gastrointestinal risk: avoid in patients with active ulcers or a history of GI bleeding.
• Monitor renal function: use caution in individuals with renal impairment or dehydration.
• Avoid concurrent anticoagulants: increased risk of bleeding when combined with warfarin or similar agents.
• Use the lowest effective dose: limit duration to the shortest period necessary for symptom control.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: consult a healthcare professional before use.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original pack, protect from moisture and heat.

Ibuprofen can interact with several medications, requiring careful management.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): heightened bleeding risk.
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): increased potential for gastrointestinal bleeding.
• Lithium: ibuprofen may raise lithium serum concentrations.
• Methotrexate: reduced clearance leading to toxicity.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• ACE inhibitors or ARBs: possible reduction in renal function, especially in volume‑depleted patients.
• Diuretics: may exacerbate renal impairment.
• Corticosteroids: combined use raises the risk of gastrointestinal ulceration.