Overview
Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat pain, fever, and inflammation. It works by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, reducing prostaglandin synthesis. Available over-the-counter and by prescription in various formulations.
Mechanism of Action
Inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2) enzymes, reducing prostaglandin synthesis which mediates pain, inflammation, and fever.
Indications
- Mild to moderate pain
- Fever reduction
- Inflammatory conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis)
- Dysmenorrhea
- Migraine
Dosage
Adults: 200-400 mg every 4-6 hours as needed, max 1200 mg/day OTC, 3200 mg/day prescription. Children: 5-10 mg/kg every 6-8 hours, max 40 mg/kg/day. Take with food or milk.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to ibuprofen or other NSAIDs
- History of asthma, urticaria, or allergic reactions after NSAIDs
- Perioperative pain in coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery
- Third trimester of pregnancy
Side Effects
- Nausea, dyspepsia, abdominal pain
- Headache, dizziness
- Edema, hypertension
- Rash, pruritus
- Renal dysfunction
- Rare: Stevens-Johnson syndrome, anaphylaxis
Interactions
- Aspirin: reduced cardioprotective effects
- Anticoagulants (warfarin): increased bleeding risk
- ACE inhibitors/ARBs: reduced antihypertensive effect
- Lithium: increased lithium levels
- Methotrexate: increased methotrexate toxicity