Neofen (Ibuprofen)

Ibuprofen works by reducing inflammation and relieving symptoms in several common conditions.

• Mild to moderate pain: provides analgesia for headaches, dental pain, musculoskeletal aches, and dysmenorrhea.
• Fever: lowers elevated body temperature associated with infections or inflammatory states.
• Inflammatory disorders: helps control swelling and discomfort in conditions such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

• Ibuprofen exerts its effect through non‑selective inhibition of cyclooxygenase‑1 (COX‑1) and cyclooxygenase‑2 (COX‑2) enzymes, which decreases the synthesis of prostaglandins that mediate pain, fever, and inflammation. By limiting prostaglandin production, the drug reduces peripheral sensitisation of nociceptors and lowers the hypothalamic set‑point for temperature regulation.

Adverse reactions may vary in frequency and severity.

Common Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal discomfort: nausea, dyspepsia, or abdominal pain.
• Headache or dizziness.
• Mild skin rash or itching.
• Elevated blood pressure in susceptible individuals.
• Transient elevation of liver enzymes.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

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

Before using Ibuprofen, consider the following safety measures.

• Assess gastrointestinal risk: avoid in patients with active ulcers or a history of GI bleeding.
• Evaluate cardiovascular status: use cautiously in individuals with hypertension, heart disease, or stroke risk.
• Monitor renal function: contraindicated in severe renal impairment or dehydration.
• Review concomitant medications: avoid concurrent use with other NSAIDs or anticoagulants without medical guidance.
• Pregnancy and lactation: discuss risks with a healthcare provider before use.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep below 25 °C, retain in original packaging, and protect from moisture.

Ibuprofen may interact with several drug classes, requiring attention to dosage and monitoring.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): increased bleeding risk.
• High‑dose aspirin: heightened gastrointestinal toxicity.
• Selective COX‑2 inhibitors: additive renal and cardiovascular adverse effects.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• ACE inhibitors or ARBs: possible reduction in antihypertensive efficacy and renal function.
• Diuretics: may enhance nephrotoxic potential.
• Lithium: NSAIDs can raise serum lithium levels.
• Methotrexate: reduced clearance leading to toxicity.