Larofen Forte (Ibuprofen)

• Ibuprofen, an NSAID, provides analgesic, antipyretic and anti‑inflammatory effects across several common conditions.
• Pain (mild to moderate): Alleviates discomfort such as headache, dental pain, and musculoskeletal aches.
• Fever: Lowers elevated body temperature associated with infections or inflammatory states.
• Inflammatory arthritis: Reduces joint swelling and improves mobility in conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

• Ibuprofen exerts its therapeutic action by non‑selectively inhibiting cyclooxygenase‑1 (COX‑1) and cyclooxygenase‑2 (COX‑2) enzymes. This inhibition blocks the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins, thereby decreasing the synthesis of mediators that promote pain, fever, and inflammation at the site of tissue injury.

Adverse reactions may occur with ibuprofen use and are categorized by frequency and severity.

Common Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal upset such as nausea, dyspepsia or heartburn.
• Mild headache or dizziness.
• Transient elevation of liver enzymes.
• Skin rash or mild itching.
• Fluid retention leading to peripheral edema.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal bleeding, ulceration or perforation.
• Severe hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylaxis.
• Renal impairment or acute kidney injury.
• Cardiovascular events such as myocardial infarction or stroke, especially with high‑dose or prolonged use.
• Hepatotoxicity presenting as jaundice or hepatitis.

• Before using ibuprofen, consider the following safety measures.
• Assess renal function: Avoid use in patients with severe kidney disease without medical supervision.
• Monitor gastrointestinal risk: Use the lowest effective dose in individuals with a history of ulcers or bleeding.
• Cardiovascular evaluation: Caution in patients with established heart disease or hypertension.
• Pregnancy and lactation: Discuss risks with a healthcare professional before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
• Drug interactions: Review concomitant medications for potential interactions.
• Store at ambient temperature: Keep below 25°C in the original packaging, protected from moisture and direct sunlight.

Ibuprofen can affect the activity of several other medicines; interaction severity varies.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): Increased risk of serious bleeding.
• High‑dose aspirin: Enhanced gastrointestinal toxicity.
• Selective COX‑2 inhibitors: Additive cardiovascular risk.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• ACE inhibitors or ARBs: May reduce antihypertensive effect and impair renal function.
• Diuretics: Potential for reduced diuretic efficacy and electrolyte imbalance.
• Lithium: Ibuprofen can raise lithium serum levels, increasing toxicity risk.