Ibuprofen – a tablet for inflammation, pain, and a high temperature

Ibuprofen – a tablet for inflammation, pain, and a high temperature

Generic name: Ibuprofen (EYE-bue-PROE-fen)
Brand names: Brufen (UK); Advil, Genpril, Motrin (US)
What it is : Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDs)
Who should benefit: People with inflammation, pain, and a high temperature
Tablet forms: 100 mg; 200 mg; 400 mg; 600 mg; 800 mg

What is ibuprofen?

Ibuprofen is a widely used medication prescribed and bought over-the-counter to treat everyday aches and pains, dental pain, period pain, and long-term joint conditions.

It belongs to a group of medicines called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Unlike simple painkillers, it works directly at the site of tissue injury or irritation to combat swelling and inflammation.

Uses

Ibuprofen is used for people with:

• Mild to moderate pain (such as headaches, backache, toothache, and muscular strains)

• Painful inflammatory joint conditions (such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis)

• Painful periods (dysmenorrhoea)

• High temperatures associated with viral infections, common colds, or childhood immunisations

Side-effects

Ibuprofen side effects are more common if the medication is taken at high doses or over a long period.

• Indigestion, heartburn, or stomach discomfort

• Feeling sick (nausea), vomiting, or flatulence

• Diarrhoea or constipation

• Headaches or dizziness

• Mild skin rashes

Serious side effects such as vomiting blood, passing dark, tarry stools, or experiencing sudden breathing difficulties are uncommon but indicate stomach bleeding or an allergic reaction and require immediate emergency medical care.

Dosage

The usual ibuprofen dose varies depending on age, weight, and the severity of the symptoms, and it should always be taken with food or a milky drink:

• Adults: The standard dose is 200 mg to 400 mg taken three to four times a day, with at least 4 hours between doses. The maximum daily limit for over-the-counter use is 1,200 mg in 24 hours, though doctors may prescribe up to 2,400 mg daily for severe joint disease.

• Children (under 12 years): Dosing is calculated strictly by weight or age, utilising liquid suspensions or lower-strength pediatric formulations.

• Shortest duration: It is always recommended to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time necessary to control symptoms.

Note: People with asthma, high blood pressure, kidney disease, or a history of stomach ulcers must check with a pharmacist or doctor before taking ibuprofen, as it can worsen these conditions.

How it works

As an NSAID, ibuprofen works by blocking cyclo-oxygenase enzymes in the body. These enzymes are responsible for producing chemicals called prostaglandins, which are released at sites of injury, disease, or infection.

By halting prostaglandin production, ibuprofen prevents the biological messages that cause localized swelling, tissue tenderness, and painful nerve signaling. It also acts on the brain’s internal thermostat to help reduce a fever.

Monitoring

For short-term over-the-counter use, regular monitoring is rarely required. However, for long-term prescription use, your doctor should monitor:

• Signs of gastrointestinal irritation or ulceration, sometimes requiring the co-prescription of a protective stomach tablet

• Kidney function and fluid retention, as NSAIDs can impact renal blood flow and cause swollen ankles

• Blood pressure levels, which can be elevated by ongoing NSAID therapy

• Potential interaction risks with other drugs, particularly blood thinners, steroids, and blood pressure medications

Other resources

• NHS: About Ibuprofen – Medicines Guide

• BNF: Ibuprofen Monograph – British National Formulary

• NICE: Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs – Prescribing Information

• Mayo Clinic (USA): Ibuprofen (Oral Route) Patient Information