Moderate to severe pain can lead to discomfort in individuals. Non-Steroidal Anti Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) are mostly prescribed for the treatment of pain related to various diseases or disorders. Ibuprofen is one of the strong non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

It is mainly prescribed for treating pain associated with headache, dental procedures, menstruation, muscle sprain or arthritis. It is available under several brands such as Brufen, Genpril, Midol, Calprofen, Nuprin, Advil, and Motrin, etc. It has both analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. Ibuprofen is available both as prescription medication and over the counter drug. The molecular weight of this drug molecule is 206.29 g/mol. The molecular formula for Ibuprofen is C13H18O2.

What effect does this medication have on the body?

Ibuprofen is available as a racemic mixture. After taking the medicine orally, the R-enantiomer goes through extensive interconversion to the S-enantiomer inside the body by the action of the alpha-methylacyl-CoA racemase enzyme. It is usually believed that the S-enantiomer produces a stronger pharmacological effect than the R-enantiomer.

The exact mechanism of action of this medication is not clearly established. This drug is a non-selective COX inhibitor and thus it impedes the activity of both COX-1 and COX-2. The inhibition of the action of COX-2 decreases prostaglandin production. Prostaglandins are substances that produce inflammation, pain, fever, and swelling.

The action of this medication begins within 30 to 60 minutes post oral administration, while its action persists for the duration of four to six hours.

How to take this medicine?

Read all the instructions given on the prescription carefully before taking this medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions related to the use of this medicine. Swallow the oral tablets of Ibuprofen with a glass of water. It is better to take this medicine after having meals to avoid gastric irritation. The dose of this medicine needs to be taken every four to six hours unless your doctor advises otherwise.

Ibuprofen dosage will depend on the health of an individual and the severity of the condition. The use of higher doses such as Ibuprofen 800 increases the risk of bleeding inside the stomach.

What precautions does one need to follow while taking this medication?

Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to any of its active or inactive components. The use of this medicine is contraindicated in persons suffering from asthma, bleeding disorders, hypertension, and stroke, etc.

Avoid consuming alcohol or tobacco while taking this medication. Alcohol can enhance the risk of bleeding inside the stomach. So avoid refrain from smoking and limit your alcohol intake. If you want to use this medication during pregnancy or breastfeeding, consult your physician first.

What are the side effects observed after taking this medication?

This medication generally does not produce serious side effects. However, as far as possible avoid consuming high doses such as Ibuprofen 800 for an extended period. The commonly observed side effects of this medicine include headache, dizziness, indigestion, and depression.

The above fast facts about Ibuprofen will help in safe and effective usage.