Key facts about Ibuprofen
What dosages is Ibuprofen available in?
Ibuprofen is available as a 100 mg, 200mg , 400 mg (Rx), 600 mg (Rx), and 800 mg (Rx) tablet; 200 mg capsule; 50 mg and 100 mg chewable tablet; 100 mg/5 ml and 40 mg/ml oral suspension,
What is Ibuprofen used for?
Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is used to treat minor aches and pains due to headache, muscle aches, arthritis, toothache, backache, the common cold, or menstrual cramps.
How does Ibuprofen work?
Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, or better known as an NSAID. It works by blocking proteins in your body called cyclooxygenase (COX) that cause inflammation, swelling, and pain. By blocking these proteins, Ibuprofen helps relieve inflammation, swelling, and pain.
How do I take Ibuprofen?
Ibuprofen is typically taken by mouth 3 to 4 times a day. The maximum dose is 3,200 mg within a 24-hour period.
Is it safe for me to take Ibuprofen?
Ibuprofen is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you. You should not use Ibuprofen if you have a hypersensitivity to the drug, other NSAIDs, aspirin, or excipients. It should also not be used for perioperative pain if you’re having coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.
Ibuprofen Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Ibuprofen include:
- Nausea
- Stomach pain
- Heartburn
- Dizziness
- Rash
Ibuprofen Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Ibuprofen. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following:
- Stomach bleeding: vomiting blood, bloody or dark stools, severe stomach pain or discomfort
- Heart attack: chest pain or tightness; pain that radiates up to your shoulder, arm, neck, or jaw
- Heart failure: trouble breathing, swelling, sudden weight gain, fast heartbeat
- Stroke: chest pain, trouble breathing, weakness in one part of your body or face, slurred speech
- Kidney problems: tiredness, dry and itchy skin, low appetite, urinating less than usual, foamy or bloody urine, muscle cramps
- Liver problems: swelling of your stomach, yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes, dark or brown urine
- Allergic reaction or skin reaction: hives, rash, skin reddening, blisters, peeling skin, swelling of the lips or tongue, difficulty breathing
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Ibuprofen
The following medications may interact with Ibuprofen:
- Other NSAIDs
- Blood thinners
- Other medications that affect blood clotting
Who makes Ibuprofen?
Various FDA-approved generic manufacturers
Is Ibuprofen safe in pregnancy?
It’s not completely clear whether Ibuprofen is safe to take during the first 20 weeks of pregnancy. But you should avoid Ibuprofen after 20 weeks of pregnancy because it might cause developmental problems in your unborn baby or complications during delivery.
