Ibuprofen
Generic Details
Generic Name
Ibuprofen
Other Names
- Advil
- Motrin
Drug Class
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
Chemical Formula
C13H18O2
Molecular Weight
206.28 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis by blocking the action of the enzyme cyclooxygenase
Indications
- Pain relief
- Fever reduction
- Inflammation reduction
Common Dosage Forms
- Tablet
- Capsule
- Suspension
- Topical gel
Typical Dosage
- 200-800 mg every 4-6 hours, not to exceed 3200 mg/day
Pediatric Dosage
- 10 mg/kg/dose every 6-8 hours
Geriatric Dosage
- Lower initial dose; adjust based on individual needs
Side Effects
- Stomach upset
- Ulcers
- Kidney damage
- High blood pressure
- Allergic reactions
Contraindications
- History of allergic reaction to NSAIDs
- Peptic ulcer disease
- Severe kidney or liver disease
Pregnancy Category
- Category C - avoid unless benefits outweigh risks
Lactation Safety
- Limited data available; caution advised
Drug Interactions
- Aspirin
- Warfarin
- Lithium
- ACE inhibitors
Overdose Symptoms
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Drowsiness
- Seizures
Antidote for Overdose
Activated charcoal
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Rapidly absorbed from the GI tract
- Distribution: Widely distributed throughout the body
- Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver to inactive metabolites
- Excretion: Excreted in the urine primarily
Precautions
- Avoid prolonged use
- Monitor renal function
- Avoid alcohol consumption while taking ibuprofen
Warnings
- May increase risk of heart attack or stroke
- May cause gastrointestinal bleeding
Others
- Ibuprofen should be taken with food or milk to reduce the risk of stomach upset