Nurofen Fastcaps (Ibuprofen)

Ibuprofen, an NSAID, is used to manage pain and inflammation associated with several common conditions.

• Headache: provides relief from tension‑type or migraine‑related pain.
• Musculoskeletal pain: reduces pain and swelling in back, joint or muscle injuries.
• Fever: lowers elevated body temperature in adults and children.

• Ibuprofen reversibly inhibits cyclooxygenase‑1 and cyclooxygenase‑2 (COX‑1, COX‑2) enzymes, decreasing the synthesis of prostaglandins that mediate inflammation, pain and fever. The reduction of prostaglandin levels at sites of tissue injury diminishes peripheral sensitisation and central pain signalling, producing analgesic, antipyretic and anti‑inflammatory effects while sparing platelet function relative to selective COX‑2 inhibitors.

Common Side Effects

• Dyspepsia: mild stomach discomfort or heartburn.
• Nausea: feeling of queasiness, often transient.
• Dizziness: light‑headed sensation, especially on standing.
• Headache: may occur despite analgesic action.
• Rash: mild skin irritation or itching.
• Diarrhoea: loose stools in some individuals.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal bleeding: serious bleeding or ulceration of the stomach or intestines.
• Severe allergic reaction: anaphylaxis, swelling of face or throat.
• Liver enzyme elevation: signs of hepatic stress or injury.
• Kidney impairment: reduced renal function, especially with prolonged use.
• Cardiovascular events: increased risk of heart attack or stroke.
• Blood disorders: rare cases of thrombocytopenia or anemia.

When using ibuprofen, consider the following precautions:

• Assess renal function: avoid in severe renal impairment.
• Monitor gastrointestinal health: use with food if there is a history of ulcer disease.
• Avoid in third‑trimester pregnancy: risk to the fetus and complications during labour.
• Use caution with anticoagulants: increased risk of bleeding when combined with warfarin or similar agents.
• Do not exceed recommended duration: limit use to 10 days for pain or fever unless directed by a healthcare professional.
• Store below 25°C: keep in the original pack, protect from moisture.

Ibuprofen can interact with several medicines; awareness of the level of interaction is essential.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Aspirin and other NSAIDs: additive gastrointestinal toxicity.
• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): increased risk of serious bleeding.
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): heightened bleeding risk.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• ACE inhibitors: may reduce renal function when combined.
• Diuretics: potential for renal impairment.
• Lithium: ibuprofen can raise lithium serum concentrations.