Ibuprofen Liquid Caps Kruidvat (Ibuprofen)

Ibuprofen, an NSAID that inhibits prostaglandin synthesis, is used for the following therapeutic indications:

• Pain: alleviates mild to moderate pain such as headache, dental discomfort, musculoskeletal aches, and menstrual cramps.
• Fever: reduces elevated body temperature associated with infections, inflammatory conditions, or other febrile illnesses.
• Inflammation: helps control inflammatory processes in conditions like arthritis, sprains, and soft‑tissue injuries.

• Ibuprofen exerts its effect by reversibly inhibiting cyclooxygenase‑1 (COX‑1) and cyclooxygenase‑2 (COX‑2) enzymes, which are key catalysts in the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins. By lowering prostaglandin synthesis, it diminishes inflammation, pain signaling, and the hypothalamic set‑point for body temperature, resulting in analgesic, antipyretic, and anti‑inflammatory actions.

Common Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal discomfort: nausea, dyspepsia, or mild abdominal pain.
• Headache: transient mild to moderate headache.
• Dizziness: occasional light‑headedness or vertigo.
• Rash: mild skin erythema or itching.
• Elevated liver enzymes: transient increase in hepatic transaminases.
• Mild renal changes: slight reduction in urine output in susceptible individuals.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal ulceration or bleeding: potentially severe hemorrhage.
• Severe allergic reactions: anaphylaxis, angioedema, or Stevens‑Johnson syndrome.
• Renal impairment: acute kidney injury, especially with dehydration.
• Hepatotoxicity: significant liver injury or hepatitis.
• Cardiovascular events: increased risk of myocardial infarction or stroke with prolonged high‑dose use.
• Hematologic abnormalities: thrombocytopenia or leukopenia.

Ibuprofen should be used with careful consideration of the following precautions:

• Gastrointestinal risk: assess history of ulcer disease or bleeding before initiating therapy.
• Renal function: avoid or adjust dose in patients with impaired kidney function.
• Cardiovascular safety: use the lowest effective dose in individuals with hypertension or heart disease.
• Hypersensitivity: discontinue immediately if signs of allergic reaction appear.
• Concomitant medications: monitor for interactions with anticoagulants, steroids, or other NSAIDs.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original pack, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Ibuprofen may interact with several medicines; awareness of the following categories is essential.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): increased risk of bleeding.
• Other NSAIDs or aspirin: additive gastrointestinal toxicity.
• Corticosteroids: heightened chance of ulceration and bleeding.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• ACE inhibitors or ARBs: possible reduction in renal function, especially in volume‑depleted patients.
• Lithium: ibuprofen can raise lithium serum levels, requiring close monitoring.