Inoflon (Ibuprofen)

Ibuprofen acts by inhibiting cyclo‑oxygenase enzymes, making it useful for conditions involving pain, fever and inflammation.

• Pain: Reduces mild to moderate acute or chronic pain such as headache, dental or musculoskeletal discomfort.
• Fever: Lowers elevated body temperature associated with infections or inflammatory disorders.
• Inflammation: Decreases swelling and stiffness in conditions like arthritis or soft‑tissue injury.

• Ibuprofen exerts its effect through reversible inhibition of cyclo‑oxygenase‑1 (COX‑1) and cyclo‑oxygenase‑2 (COX‑2) enzymes. By blocking these enzymes, it reduces the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins and thromboxanes, mediators that promote pain, fever and inflammation. The decreased prostaglandin synthesis leads to diminished sensitization of nociceptors and lowered hypothalamic temperature set‑point, providing symptomatic relief.

Ibuprofen may cause a range of adverse reactions, from mild and frequent to rare but serious.

Common Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal upset: nausea, dyspepsia or abdominal discomfort.
• Headache: mild to moderate intensity.
• Dizziness or vertigo.
• Rash or mild skin irritation.
• Elevated blood pressure: transient increase in some patients.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcer perforation.
• Severe allergic reactions: anaphylaxis, angioedema.
• Renal impairment or acute kidney injury.
• Hepatotoxicity: elevated liver enzymes or hepatitis.
• Blood disorders: thrombocytopenia or leukopenia.

Before using Inoflon, consider the following safety measures to minimize risk.

• Assess gastrointestinal risk: avoid in patients with active ulcers or history of GI bleeding.
• Monitor renal function: use caution in those with kidney disease or dehydration.
• Use the lowest effective dose: limit duration to the shortest period needed for symptom control.
• Avoid in known hypersensitivity: discontinue if rash, itching or swelling occurs.
• Concomitant anticoagulant use: increase monitoring for bleeding.
• Store at room temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and heat.

Ibuprofen can interact with several medicines; some require avoidance while others need close monitoring.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): increased risk of serious bleeding.
• Other NSAIDs or aspirin: additive gastrointestinal toxicity.
• Corticosteroids: heightened risk of ulceration and bleeding.
• Lithium: ibuprofen may raise lithium serum levels, risking toxicity.
• Methotrexate: reduced clearance leading to toxicity.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• ACE inhibitors or ARBs: possible reduction in antihypertensive effect and renal function.
• Diuretics: may enhance renal impairment.
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): increased bleeding tendency.
• Beta‑blockers: potential attenuation of blood pressure control.
• Antidiabetic agents: ibuprofen may affect glucose control.