Nurofen Lemon (Ibuprofen)

• Ibuprofen works by decreasing prostaglandin production, offering relief in several common conditions.
• Headache: reduces pain intensity and associated discomfort.
• Toothache: alleviates dental pain and improves chewing ability.
• Muscular pain: eases muscle aches and stiffness.
• Fever: lowers elevated body temperature to normal range.
• Inflammatory conditions: diminishes swelling and discomfort in joints and soft tissues.

• Ibuprofen reversibly inhibits cyclooxygenase‑1 (COX‑1) and cyclooxygenase‑2 (COX‑2) enzymes, which are key in the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins. By reducing prostaglandin synthesis, it decreases inflammation, pain signaling, and fever generation at peripheral sites and within the hypothalamus. The inhibition is non‑selective, affecting both constitutive and inducible COX isoforms, leading to its analgesic, antipyretic, and anti‑inflammatory actions.

Ibuprofen may cause a range of adverse reactions, varying from mild to serious.

Common Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal discomfort: nausea, dyspepsia or abdominal pain.
• Headache: mild tension‑type headache.
• Dizziness: transient light‑headedness.
• Rash: mild skin redness or itching.
• Diarrhea: loose stools.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal bleeding or ulceration.
• Severe allergic reaction: anaphylaxis, angioedema.
• Kidney impairment: reduced renal function or acute failure.
• Liver injury: elevated enzymes or hepatitis.
• Cardiovascular events: increased risk of heart attack or stroke.

Before using ibuprofen, consider the following precautions to ensure safe use.

• Medical history review: disclose existing gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, renal or liver conditions.
• Food intake: take with food or milk to lessen stomach irritation.
• Alcohol avoidance: limit alcohol consumption to reduce ulcer risk.
• Dose limits: do not exceed the maximum daily amount recommended by a healthcare professional.
• Concomitant medications: inform the prescriber about other NSAIDs, anticoagulants or steroids.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: use only if advised by a physician after risk assessment.
• Store at room temperature: keep in the original packaging, protect from moisture and heat.

Ibuprofen can interact with several medicines; awareness of these interactions helps prevent adverse effects.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): increased bleeding risk.
• Other NSAIDs or aspirin: heightened gastrointestinal toxicity.
• Corticosteroids: amplified ulcer formation.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• ACE inhibitors or ARBs: possible reduction in antihypertensive effect and renal function.
• Diuretics: risk of reduced kidney perfusion.
• Lithium: elevated lithium levels leading to toxicity.
• Methotrexate: decreased clearance and potential toxicity.
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): increased bleeding tendency.