Ibuprofen

Description

Ibuprofen is a medicine classified as a Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (N

SAID). It is commonly used to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and lower fever. It works by blocking chemicals in the body that cause pain and swelling. Ibuprofen should be taken exactly as directed by your doctor or as indicated on the label to minimise the risk of side effects, such as stomach upset or irritation.

Uses

Contraindications

Side effects

Precautions and Warnings

Uses

It is used in the treatment of rheumatic and muscular pain, backache, headache, dental pain, migraine, neuralgia and periods pain
It can also provide relief in fever and the symptoms of colds and flu

Contraindications

When should one not use Ibuprofen

If you have a stomach ulcer or bleeding
If you are allergic to Ibuprofen or any ingredient of this medicine
If you have severe kidney, heart or liver disorder

Side effects

Common side effects of this drug are:

Stomach pain
Allergic reactions like rashes
Stomach pain, heartburn, indigestion
Diarrhea, flatulence
Nausea

Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy

Can I take Ibuprofen during pregnancy?

It is not safe during pregnancy, especially in the last three months of pregnancy. You should consult with the doctor as he/ she will tell you about the usage of Ibuprofen after assessing the benefits over risks.

Breast Feeding

Can I take Ibuprofen while breastfeeding?

It is advised to consult a doctor, especially in the first six months of breastfeeding. It passes into the mother’s milk in small amounts, so it may affect the newborn baby.

Driving

Can I drive if I have consumed Ibuprofen?

It does not usually affect your ability to drive.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Ibuprofen?

Ibuprofen should not be taken with alcohol. It increases the side effects like dizziness and difficulty in concentration. It also causes severe stomach pain.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

You have heart problems including heart failure, angina
You have high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol or you smoke
You have asthma, allergic reactions
You are in the age group of 12-18 years

Mode of Action

How Does It Work?

Ibuprofen acts by hindering the release of certain chemical substances in the body, which cause pain or swelling.

Interactions

Interactions with other medicines

Blood thinners like Warfarin
Medicines used to treat high blood pressure like Captopril, beta-blockers such as Atenolol
Antiplatelet agents, cardiac glycosides, selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors, Lithium, Methotrexate, Ciclosporin, Mifepristone, Tacrolimus, Zidovudine or Quinolone antibiotics

Interactions with food items

No known food interaction has been reported.

Dosage

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose include nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, headache, ringing in the ears and confusion. At high dosages, drowsiness, chest pain, palpitations, loss of consciousness, convulsions (mai...

Missed a Dose

Do not take a double dose if you have missed the dose; take the next dose as soon as you remember.

Content Details

WRITTEN BY

Dr. Arpit Verma

MBBS, MD, CCEBDM Diabetology

REVIEWED BY

Dr. Ritu Budania

MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What should I discuss with my healthcare expert before taking Ibuprofen?

A: Give a detailed account of your medical and surgical history. The doctor should know if you have an allergy, asthma, stomach ulcers or are pregnant.

Q: What are the precautions should I take while on this drug?

A: The dosage regimen of the drug should be followed regularly. Do not use this drug for an extended period. It is known to be toxic to the kidney on prolonged use.

Q: What is Ibuprofen used for?

A: Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and lower fever. It is commonly used to treat headaches, muscle pain, joint pain, menstrual cramps, toothaches, arthritis, and injuries. It helps make daily activities more comfortable by reducing swelling and pain.

Q: How does Ibuprofen work?

A: Ibuprofen works by blocking certain chemicals in the body called prostaglandins, which are responsible for causing pain, inflammation, and fever. By reducing prostaglandins, Ibuprofen lowers pain and swelling, helping the body feel more comfortable.

Q: What are the common side effects of Ibuprofen?

A: Common side effects include stomach pain, heartburn, nausea, mild headache, or dizziness. Rare but serious side effects include stomach ulcers, bleeding, kidney problems, high blood pressure, or allergic reactions. Seek immediate medical help if you notice severe stomach pain, black stools, swelling, or shortness of breath.

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Last Updated on: 23 Sep 2025 | 11:40 PM (IST)

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Disclaimer

The information provided herein is supplied to the best of our abilities to make it accurate and reliable as it is published after a review by a team of professionals. This information is solely intended to provide a general overview on the product and must be used for informational purposes only. You should not use the information provided herein to diagnose, prevent, or cure a health problem. Nothing contained on this page is intended to create a doctor-patient relationship, replace or be a substitute for a registered medical practitioner's medical treatment/advice or consultation. The absence of any information or warning to any medicine shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance. We highly recommend that you consult your registered medical practitioner for all queries or doubts related to your medical condition. You hereby agree that you shall not make any health or medical-related decision based in whole or in part on anything contained in the Site. Please click here for detailed T&C.