Ibuprofen Ibuprofen Patheon (Ibuprofen)

Ibuprofen acts systemically to reduce pain, fever and inflammation associated with several common conditions.

• Mild to moderate pain: Provides analgesic relief for headaches, dental pain, musculoskeletal aches and minor injuries.
• Fever: Lowers elevated body temperature by acting on the hypothalamic heat‑regulation centre.
• Inflammation: Decreases swelling in conditions such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
• Osteoarthritis: Improves joint comfort and function by reducing inflammatory mediators.
• Rheumatoid arthritis: Alleviates joint pain and stiffness during flare‑ups.
• Dysmenorrhea: Relieves menstrual cramps through prostaglandin inhibition.

• Ibuprofen exerts its therapeutic effect by reversibly inhibiting cyclooxygenase‑1 (COX‑1) and cyclooxygenase‑2 (COX‑2) enzymes. This inhibition blocks the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins, thereby reducing the synthesis of mediators that cause pain, fever and inflammation. The balanced COX‑1/COX‑2 inhibition also moderates platelet aggregation and gastric mucosal protection, contributing to its safety profile relative to selective agents.

Adverse reactions can range from mild to severe, depending on individual susceptibility and duration of therapy.

Common Side Effects

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

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal bleeding or ulceration.
• Acute kidney injury, especially in volume‑depleted patients.
• Severe hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis or Stevens‑Johnson syndrome.
• Elevated liver enzymes or hepatitis.
• Cardiovascular events such as myocardial infarction with prolonged high‑dose use.

Before initiating therapy, consider the following safety measures.

• Assess gastrointestinal risk: avoid in patients with active ulcer disease or a history of serious GI bleeding.
• Monitor renal function: use caution in dehydration, chronic kidney disease or concurrent nephrotoxic drugs.
• Check for hypersensitivity: discontinue if signs of allergic reaction appear.
• Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration required to achieve therapeutic goals.
• Pregnancy and lactation: consult a healthcare professional before use.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and heat.

Ibuprofen may interact with several medication classes; awareness helps prevent adverse outcomes.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): increased risk of serious bleeding.
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): heightened gastrointestinal bleed risk.
• Lithium: ibuprofen can raise serum lithium concentrations, risking toxicity.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• ACE inhibitors or ARBs: combined use may reduce renal perfusion.
• Diuretics: potential for decreased renal function and electrolyte imbalance.
• Methotrexate: ibuprofen may reduce clearance, leading to toxicity.