Dexifen

Indications

Dexibuprofen is used to relieve pain and inflammation in adults, for example:

• pain and stiffness of osteoarthritis and other joint and muscle conditions;
• painful periods (dysmenorrhoea);
• mild to moderate pain such as toothache, back pain, headache and pain after minor injuries or dental work.

How It Works

Dexibuprofen is the active form of Ibuprofen (the S form), so a smaller dose gives a similar effect. It is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It blocks the COX enzymes that make prostaglandins, chemicals that cause pain, swelling and fever.

Dosage and Administration

• Adults: usually 200 to 400 mg two or three times a day, depending on the pain. Do not take more than 1200 mg in a day.
• Painful periods: 200 to 300 mg up to three times a day, as needed.
• Older people and those with liver or kidney problems: start at the lowest dose, as advised by the doctor.
• Children and teenagers under 18: not usually used unless prescribed.

Take with or after food and a glass of water. Use the lowest dose that works for the shortest time.

Interactions

Do not take with other NSAIDs (such as Ibuprofen, Naproxen or Diclofenac) or regular Aspirin. Bleeding risk is higher with blood thinners (such as Warfarin), steroids and some antidepressants (SSRIs). It can weaken blood pressure medicines and water tablets and, with them, may harm the kidneys. It can raise the levels of Lithium and Methotrexate. Tell your doctor about all medicines you take.

Contraindications

• Allergy to Dexibuprofen, Ibuprofen, Aspirin or other NSAIDs (including asthma, hives or runny nose triggered by them)
• Active stomach ulcer or bleeding, or repeated ulcers in the past
• Bleeding from the stomach or bowel caused by NSAIDs before
• Severe heart failure, severe liver disease or severe kidney disease
• The last 3 months of pregnancy

Side Effects

Common: indigestion, stomach pain, nausea, heartburn, diarrhoea or wind. Less often: headache, dizziness, drowsiness, rash and fluid retention.

NSAIDs can cause stomach ulcers and bleeding, and with long use may slightly increase the risk of heart attack or stroke.

Stop and get medical help at once for: black or bloody stools, vomiting blood or something like coffee grounds, chest pain, sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, swelling of the face or throat, wheezing or trouble breathing, a severe or blistering rash, or passing very little urine.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Avoid in pregnancy unless a doctor advises it; it must not be used in the last 3 months, as it can harm the baby and affect labour. NSAIDs may also make it harder to get pregnant. Small amounts may pass into breast milk; short-term use may be acceptable, but ask your doctor first.

Precautions and Warnings

• Take extra care if you have asthma, high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney or liver problems, or a past stomach ulcer.
• Older people are more likely to have stomach bleeding and kidney problems.
• Dizziness or drowsiness can occur; take care when driving.
• Avoid alcohol, which increases the risk of stomach bleeding.
• Do not use for more than a few days for pain without medical advice.

Overdose

An overdose can cause stomach pain, vomiting, drowsiness, headache, ringing in the ears and, in severe cases, kidney damage, bleeding or fits. Contact a doctor or go to hospital promptly.

Therapeutic Class

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), painkiller.

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.