drug name | Ibuprofen |
classification | Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID) |
pharmacokinetics | Ibuprofen is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Peak plasma concentrations are achieved within 1-2 hours. It is primarily metabolized in the liver, with a half-life of approximately 2 hours. Excretion is primarily renal. Absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion may vary with factors like age, renal function, and hepatic impairment. |
dosage | adult | initial dose | 200-400 mg | frequency | every 4-6 hours | maximum daily dose | 1200 mg | administration note | As needed. Dosage should be adjusted based on individual needs and response. |
| pediatric dosage | Dosage should be determined by a physician based on the child's age, weight, and condition. |
|
indications | 1 | Pain relief (e.g., headache, muscle aches, menstrual cramps) | 2 | Fever reduction | 3 | Inflammatory conditions (e.g., osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis) |
|
safety considerations | pregnancy | general recommendation | Use during pregnancy should be carefully considered, especially during the third trimester. Potential risks to the fetus and adverse effects on the mother need to be weighed against the benefit. Consultation with a healthcare professional is essential. | specific notes | Avoid use in the third trimester unless absolutely necessary |
| breastfeeding | general recommendation | Generally considered safe at recommended doses. However, potential effects on the infant should be considered. | specific notes | Monitor for any adverse effects in the nursing infant |
|
|
side effects | 1 | category | Gastrointestinal | examples | 1 | Nausea | 2 | Vomiting | 3 | Heartburn | 4 | Diarrhea | 5 | Abdominal pain |
|
| 2 | category | Other | examples | 1 | Headache | 2 | Dizziness | 3 | Fatigue | 4 | Allergic reactions (e.g., rash, itching, hives) | 5 | Increased risk of bleeding |
|
| 3 | category | Serious (rare) | examples | 1 | Kidney problems | 2 | Liver problems | 3 | Heart problems | 4 | Fluid retention | 5 | Breathing difficulties |
|
|
|
alternatives | |
contraindications | 1 | Known hypersensitivity to ibuprofen or other NSAIDs | 2 | Active peptic ulcer | 3 | Gastrointestinal bleeding | 4 | Severe heart failure | 5 | Severe liver or kidney disease | 6 | Pregnancy (third trimester) | 7 | Concurrent use of certain medications (e.g., blood thinners) |
|
drug interactions | Various medications (e.g., blood thinners, corticosteroids, diuretics, ACE inhibitors); some food and herbal products. Consult a physician for potential interactions with existing medications. |
warnings and precautions | 1 | Patients with pre-existing conditions or those taking other medications should consult their doctor. | 2 | Use with caution in older adults and those with renal or hepatic impairment. | 3 | Do not exceed recommended dosages. | 4 | Long-term use can increase the risk of adverse effects. |
|
additional information | 1 | Ibuprofen is available as tablets, capsules, and liquid suspensions. | 2 | Take with food or milk to reduce stomach upset. | 3 | Report any worsening symptoms or new symptoms to a medical professional. |
|
important disclaimer | This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting or stopping any medication. |