Ibuprofen
Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used by adults for mild to moderate pain, fever and the joint symptoms of arthritis. It eases pain and swelling together. Tablets are film-coated and come in more than one strength.
Medicine containing Ibuprofen
Key points
- Ibuprofen blocks the cyclo-oxygenase enzymes that produce prostaglandins, the substances that drive pain, swelling and fever.
- It is used for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, period pain, mild to moderate pain and fever.
- NSAIDs other than aspirin may raise the risk of heart attack and stroke, and can cause ulcers, bleeding or holes in the stomach and intestine.
What it is used for
Ibuprofen suits short-term and longer-term pain, including mild to moderate pain and the aches that come with fever. It is also taken for joint disease: osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Period pain is another common reason for using it. Further options sit in the pain management category.
How it works
The body makes prostaglandins through the cyclo-oxygenase enzymes. Ibuprofen blocks those enzymes, so less prostaglandin is produced. Since prostaglandins drive pain, swelling and fever, blocking them eases all three.
Forms and brands
MayChemist supplies Motrin film-coated tablets in 200mg, 400mg and 600mg strengths. The active ingredient is ibuprofen; the ibuprofen page covers the ingredient itself. Pharmacy partners in India ship orders to Malaysia in discreet packaging.
Safety
Do not take ibuprofen if you are allergic to it, to aspirin or to other NSAIDs. Avoid it after a recent heart attack, and around or after 20 weeks of pregnancy, unless a doctor advises it. Tell your doctor if you have asthma, heart failure, swelling, lupus, or liver or kidney disease.
Minor effects include constipation, gas or bloating, and dizziness. Nervousness, ringing in the ears and diarrhoea are also reported. Get immediate medical attention for vomiting blood or black, tarry stools; swelling of the face or throat, or difficulty breathing; or yellowing of the skin or eyes.
Ibuprofen interacts with anticoagulants, aspirin, other NSAIDs, oral steroids, SSRIs and SNRIs. If you are breastfeeding, confirm suitability with a qualified clinician or pharmacist before use.
Further reading
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