Nurofen (Ibuprofen)

Ibuprofen works by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis, providing analgesic, antipyretic, and anti‑inflammatory effects for common pain‑related conditions.

• Headache: relief of tension‑type or migraine‑associated pain.
• Toothache: reduction of dental pain and associated inflammation.
• Menstrual pain: alleviation of dysmenorrhea symptoms.
• Musculoskeletal pain: easing of joint, muscle and back discomfort.
• Fever: lowering elevated body temperature in acute febrile states.

• Ibuprofen reversibly inhibits cyclooxygenase‑1 (COX‑1) and cyclooxygenase‑2 (COX‑2) enzymes, decreasing the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins. This reduction in prostaglandin synthesis diminishes peripheral sensitisation, lowers fever set‑point in the hypothalamus, and curtails inflammatory mediator release, resulting in analgesic, antipyretic, and anti‑inflammatory actions.

Ibuprofen is generally well tolerated, but adverse reactions can occur.

Common Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal discomfort: nausea, dyspepsia or mild abdominal pain.
• Headache: transient mild headache.
• Dizziness: occasional light‑headedness.
• Rash: mild skin irritation or erythema.
• Elevated blood pressure: modest increase in some patients.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal bleeding or ulceration.
• Renal impairment: reduced kidney function or acute kidney injury.
• Hepatotoxicity: elevated 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 individuals.

When using ibuprofen, consider the following safety measures.

• Assess renal function: avoid use in patients with severe kidney disease.
• Monitor gastrointestinal risk: use with food or a proton‑pump inhibitor in those with ulcer history.
• Evaluate cardiovascular status: exercise caution in patients with heart disease or hypertension.
• Review concomitant medications: avoid concurrent use with other NSAIDs or anticoagulants without medical advice.
• Pregnancy and lactation: consult a healthcare professional before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep below 25 °C, in the original packaging, protected from moisture and direct sunlight.

Ibuprofen can interact with several drug classes, requiring attention to avoid adverse outcomes.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

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

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• ACE inhibitors or ARBs: possible reduction in antihypertensive efficacy and renal function.
• Diuretics: risk of decreased renal perfusion.
• Lithium: elevated lithium levels.
• Methotrexate: reduced clearance leading to toxicity.