Imofen (Ibuprofen)

Ibuprofen is an NSAID that reduces pain and inflammation by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis.

• Mild to moderate pain: Relieves discomfort from injuries, musculoskeletal strain, or postoperative sources.
• Fever: Lowers elevated body temperature associated with infections or inflammatory conditions.
• Osteoarthritis: Decreases joint pain and improves mobility in degenerative joint disease.
• Rheumatoid arthritis: Mitigates inflammatory joint pain and swelling in autoimmune arthritis.
• Dysmenorrhea: Alleviates menstrual cramps and associated pelvic pain.

• Ibuprofen exerts its therapeutic 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 diminishes peripheral sensitization of nociceptors, lowers fever set‑points in the hypothalamus, and curtails inflammatory mediators, resulting in analgesic, antipyretic, and anti‑inflammatory actions.

Adverse reactions may range from mild gastrointestinal discomfort to serious organ toxicity.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: Stomach upset often occurring shortly after ingestion.
• Dyspepsia: Indigestion or heartburn sensations.
• Headache: Mild to moderate cranial pain.
• Dizziness: Transient light‑headedness.
• Rash: Minor skin irritation or erythema.
• Diarrhoea: Loose stools occurring after dosing.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal bleeding or ulceration: Potential for serious bleeding in the stomach or intestines.
• Renal impairment: Reduced kidney function, especially with prolonged use.
• Severe allergic reactions: Anaphylaxis, angioedema, or bronchospasm.
• Stevens‑Johnson syndrome: Rare, life‑threatening skin reaction.
• Hepatic injury: Elevated liver enzymes or hepatitis.
• Cardiovascular events: Increased risk of heart attack or stroke with high‑dose or long‑term therapy.

Use ibuprofen with caution and follow clinical guidance to minimize risks.

• Assess gastrointestinal risk: Evaluate history of ulcers or bleeding before initiating therapy.
• Use the lowest effective dose: Limit exposure to the minimum dose needed for symptom control.
• Monitor renal function: Check kidney parameters in patients with pre‑existing renal disease or dehydration.
• Avoid in known hypersensitivity: Discontinue if allergic reactions occur.
• Caution in cardiovascular disease: Consider alternative analgesics for patients with heart failure or ischemic heart disease.
• Store at room temperature: Keep in the original pack, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Ibuprofen can affect the pharmacodynamics or pharmacokinetics of several medicines.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): Increased risk of serious bleeding.
• Other NSAIDs or aspirin: Heightened gastrointestinal toxicity.
• Lithium: Elevated lithium serum concentrations.
• Methotrexate: Reduced clearance leading to toxicity.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• ACE inhibitors or ARBs: Potential for reduced antihypertensive effect and renal impairment.
• Diuretics: May exacerbate fluid loss and kidney dysfunction.
• SSRIs or SNRIs: Slightly increased bleeding tendency.
• Corticosteroids: Additive risk of gastrointestinal ulceration.
• Oral hypoglycemics: Possible alteration of blood glucose control.