Ibuprofen
What It Is Used For
Ibuprofen is a pain reliever and anti-inflammatory medicine (an NSAID). It eases headache, toothache, period pain, muscle and joint pain, back pain, sprains and arthritis, and brings down fever.
How to Take It
Adults: 200 to 400 mg every 6 to 8 hours with or after food. Do not take more than 1,200 mg a day unless a doctor tells you to. Children: the dose depends on weight, usually as syrup; follow the label or your doctor.
Who Should Not Take It
Do not take it if you are allergic to Ibuprofen, Aspirin or other NSAIDs, if they have ever caused asthma or a rash, if you have or had a stomach ulcer or bleeding, or if you have severe heart, kidney or liver failure. Do not take it in the last 3 months of pregnancy. Do not take it for fever when dengue is possible; use Paracetamol and see a doctor.
Side Effects
Common: stomach upset, heartburn, nausea and dizziness. Less common but serious: stomach bleeding (black stools or vomiting blood), kidney problems and allergic reactions. Stop taking it and get help if these happen.
Precautions
Use the lowest dose for the shortest time. Take it with food. Tell your doctor if you have asthma, high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney disease or are elderly, and drink enough water.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Avoid in pregnancy unless a doctor advises it, and never in the last 3 months. Short courses are usually acceptable while breastfeeding; ask your doctor.
Interactions
Do not combine with other NSAIDs or Aspirin. Take care with blood thinners such as Warfarin, steroids, blood pressure medicines, water tablets, Lithium and Methotrexate.
Overdose
Too much can cause stomach pain, vomiting, drowsiness and breathing problems. Get medical help straight away.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.
All brands of Ibuprofen