Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) widely used for the relief of mild to moderate pain, inflammation, and fever. It works by inhibiting both COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, reducing prostaglandin production. Ibuprofen is effective for headache, dental pain, menstrual cramps, musculoskeletal pain, and feverish illness. At lower doses it acts primarily as an analgesic, while higher doses provide significant anti-inflammatory effect.

How to Take Ibuprofen

Take ibuprofen with or after food to protect the stomach lining. Swallow tablets whole with a full glass of water. Always use the lowest dose that works for you for the shortest time needed.

The standard adult dose for pain or fever is 200 mg to 400 mg, taken up to three times a day, leaving at least six hours between doses. Do not exceed 1200 mg in 24 hours without medical advice. Avoid alcohol during treatment, as it increases the risk of stomach irritation and bleeding.

Adults: 200 to 400 mg three to four times daily as needed. Maximum: 1200 mg daily (OTC) or 2400 mg daily (prescription). Children: dose based on weight.

Common Side Effects

Common side effects include:

• Nausea and indigestion
• Stomach pain
• Heartburn
• Headache
• Dizziness

Stomach irritation is the most common issue with ibuprofen. Taking it with food, milk, or a stomach-protecting medication (such as omeprazole) significantly reduces this risk. With long-term use, ibuprofen can sometimes cause stomach ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding. Get urgent medical help if you notice black or tarry stools, or if you vomit something that looks like coffee grounds.

Take with food. Avoid in the third trimester of pregnancy. Use with caution in asthma, renal impairment, and cardiovascular disease. Prolonged high-dose use increases cardiovascular and GI risk.

Contraindicated in active peptic ulceration, severe heart failure, severe renal or hepatic impairment, known NSAID or aspirin allergy, and the third trimester of pregnancy.