What is ibuprofen?
Ibuprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is a medication that effectively mitigates inflammation and pain by impeding hormones that trigger such responses in the body. The multifaceted therapeutic properties of Ibuprofen encompass treatment for fever, toothache, back pain, headache, menstrual cramps, arthritis, and minor injury. Both adults and children (6 months and above) may use Ibuprofen.
Ibuprofen is akin to several other drugs, including prednisone, aspirin, acetaminophen, tramadol, meloxicam, cyclobenzaprine, and duloxetine. However, while Ibuprofen is widely used, there are some precautions that people need to take before using it.
Notably, the potential hazards of Ibuprofen include an increased risk of fatal heart attack or stroke. The drug should not be used immediately before or after heart bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG). Prolonged use of Ibuprofen may also cause stomach or intestinal bleeding, which can be fatal, particularly in older adults. In this regard, it is advisable to use only the smallest amount of medication necessary to ease pain, swelling, or fever. Overdosing on Ibuprofen can cause severe damage to the stomach or intestines.
Before taking Ibuprofen, it is imperative to consider specific safety measures. It is not advisable to use the drug if you are allergic to it or have ever had an asthma attack or severe allergic reaction after taking aspirin or an NSAID. Additionally, it is crucial to ask a doctor or pharmacist if the medicine is safe to use if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or if you smoke; have had a heart attack, stroke, or blood clot; stomach ulcers or bleeding; liver or kidney disease; asthma; or if you take aspirin to prevent heart attack or stroke. Moreover, pregnant or breastfeeding women should seek medical advice before taking Ibuprofen.
If you are pregnant, taking Ibuprofen during the last 20 weeks can cause severe heart or kidney problems in the unborn baby, and it can lead to possible complications with your pregnancy. Do not give Ibuprofen to a child younger than 6 months old without the advice of a doctor.
When taking Ibuprofen, it is essential to use it precisely as directed on the label or prescribed by your doctor. It is best to use the lowest effective dose to treat the condition. For adults, the maximum amount of Ibuprofen is 800 milligrams per dose or 3200 mg per day (4 maximum doses). However, children’s dosage varies based on their age and weight. It is vital to follow the dosing instructions provided with children’s Ibuprofen for the child’s age and weight. If you have questions, ask a doctor or pharmacist.
Taking Ibuprofen with food or milk can lessen stomach upset. Before taking the oral suspension (liquid), shake it. It is best to use the dosing syringe provided or a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon) to measure the dose accurately. Chewable tablets must be chewed before swallowing, and the liquid medicine should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Do not allow the liquid medicine to freeze.
If you miss a dose, skip it if it’s almost time for your next dose since Ibuprofen is used as needed. Do not use two doses at one time.
