Nurofen Express (Ibuprofen Sodium Dihydrate)

Ibuprofen acts systemically to manage pain and inflammation associated with several common conditions.

• Headache: provides relief from tension‑type and mild migraine pain.
• Dental pain: reduces discomfort following dental procedures or toothache.
• Musculoskeletal pain: eases aches from sprains, strains, and minor joint inflammation.
• Menstrual cramps: lessens dysmenorrhea associated with uterine contractions.
• Fever: helps lower elevated body temperature in adults.

• Ibuprofen inhibits cyclo‑oxygenase (COX‑1 and COX‑2) enzymes, decreasing the synthesis of prostaglandins that mediate pain, fever, and inflammation. By reducing prostaglandin levels at sites of tissue injury, it dampens the inflammatory response and lowers the hypothalamic set‑point for temperature regulation.

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

Common Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal upset: nausea, dyspepsia, or mild abdominal pain.
• Headache: transient headache unrelated to the condition being treated.
• Dizziness: occasional light‑headedness or vertigo.
• Rash: mild skin erythema or itching.
• Elevated blood pressure: modest increase in systolic or diastolic pressure.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal bleeding: ulceration or hemorrhage requiring medical attention.
• Renal impairment: reduced kidney function, especially with prolonged use.
• Hepatotoxicity: abnormal liver enzymes or hepatitis.
• Severe allergic reactions: anaphylaxis, angioedema, or Stevens‑Johnson syndrome.
• Cardiovascular events: increased risk of myocardial infarction or stroke in high‑risk patients.

Before using ibuprofen, consider the following safety measures.

• Cardiovascular risk: avoid if you have a history of heart disease or stroke without medical advice.
• Gastrointestinal history: caution in patients with ulcers, gastritis, or bleeding disorders.
• Renal function: monitor kidney health in those with chronic kidney disease or dehydration.
• Pregnancy and lactation: consult a healthcare professional before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
• Concomitant medications: review all current drugs 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.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

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

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• ACE inhibitors or ARBs: possible reduction in antihypertensive effect and renal function.
• Diuretics: may enhance renal impairment.
• Lithium: ibuprofen can raise serum lithium levels.
• Methotrexate: reduced clearance leading to toxicity.
• SSRIs or SNRIs: increased chance of gastrointestinal bleeding.