Nurofen (Ibuprofen)

Nurofen (ibuprofen) is an over‑the‑counter NSAID employed to manage a range of conditions that involve pain, fever, or inflammation, providing symptomatic relief in both acute and chronic settings.

• Headache: reduces the intensity of tension‑type and mild migraine headaches.
• Fever: lowers elevated body temperature associated with viral or bacterial infections.
• Musculoskeletal pain: alleviates discomfort from arthritis, sprains, and other inflammatory joint conditions.
• Dental pain: provides relief after tooth extraction or dental procedures.
• Menstrual cramps: eases dysmenorrhea associated with menstrual cycles.
• Back pain: mitigates discomfort from lower back strain or chronic lumbar conditions.

• Ibuprofen exerts its effect by reversibly inhibiting the cyclooxygenase enzymes COX‑1 and COX‑2. This inhibition blocks the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins and thromboxanes, reducing the synthesis of mediators that cause pain, fever, and inflammation throughout the body. By lowering prostaglandin levels in peripheral tissues and the central nervous system, ibuprofen diminishes nociceptor sensitization and lowers the hypothalamic set‑point for temperature regulation.

Like all NSAIDs, ibuprofen may cause a range of adverse reactions, varying from mild to serious.

Common Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal discomfort: nausea, dyspepsia, or mild abdominal pain.
• Headache: transient headache may occur.
• Dizziness: occasional light‑headedness.
• Rash: mild skin erythema or itching.
• Mouth ulcers: minor ulceration in oral mucosa.
• Elevated liver enzymes: mild increase in hepatic transaminases.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal ulceration or bleeding: severe stomach pain or black stools.
• Renal impairment: reduced kidney function or swelling.
• Allergic reactions: anaphylaxis, angioedema, or severe skin reactions.
• Cardiovascular events: increased risk of heart attack or stroke.
• Liver injury: significant elevation of liver enzymes or hepatitis.

When using ibuprofen, certain precautions should be observed to minimize risks and ensure safe use.

• Medical history: disclose any history of ulcers, bleeding disorders, or cardiovascular disease.
• Concurrent NSAIDs: avoid taking other NSAIDs or aspirin to reduce gastrointestinal risk.
• Kidney function: monitor renal status in patients with chronic kidney disease or dehydration.
• Pregnancy and lactation: consult a healthcare professional before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
• Alcohol consumption: limit alcohol intake as it may increase stomach irritation.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep tablets in the original container, protect from moisture and heat.

Ibuprofen can interact with several medicines, altering their effectiveness or increasing adverse effects.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): may enhance bleeding risk.
• Selective COX‑2 inhibitors: combined use increases gastrointestinal toxicity.
• High‑dose corticosteroids: raise ulceration risk.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• ACE inhibitors or ARBs: may reduce antihypertensive effect and impair renal function.
• Lithium: ibuprofen can increase lithium serum levels.
• Methotrexate: may decrease renal clearance, raising toxicity.