Ibuprofen

Uses of Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen is commonly used in the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis, joint pain, dental pain, fever, gout, headache, muscle pain, osteoarthritis, pain during menstruation, postoperative pain and rheumatoid arthritis.

How Ibuprofen Works

Ibuprofen, a Non-steroidal Anti Inflammatory Drug (NSAID) has analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic properties. It inhibits cyclooxygenase-1 and 2 thereby, also inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis that is responsible for inflammation.

Side Effects of Ibuprofen

Nausea or vomiting, Heartburn, Loss of appetite, Cramps, Flatulence, Constipation or Diarrhea, Dizziness, Sleepiness, Hearing disturbances, Headache, Insomnia, Mood changes

Warnings

Kidney High Risk

Use of Ibuprofen is not recommended in patients with severe kidney disease. Dose adjustment of Ibuprofen may be needed. Please consult your doctor.

Alcohol Not Advisable

Consuming alcohol with Ibuprofen is best avoided.

Pregnancy Not Safe

Take with precaution in 1st and 2nd trimester but do not take during 3rd trimester of pregnancy here is a risk of premature closure of the foetal ductus arteriosus with possible persistent pulmonary hypertension.The onset of labour may be delayed and duration of labour increased, with increased bleeding tendency in both mother and child.

Driving Generally Safe

Ibuprofen usually does not affect the ability to drive. Do not drive unless you are feeling well.

Liver Limited Data

Ibuprofen is contraindicated in patients with severe liver disease as it is metabolised in the liver.

Lactation Limited Data

In limited studies, Ibuprofen appears in the breast milk in very low concentrations and is unlikely to affect the breast-fed infant adversely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Written by , MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)

Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).