Berkley and Jensen Ibuprofen

Description

Ibuprofen tablets are formulated as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) with a dosage strength of 200 mg per tablet. Each bottle contains 500 tablets, designed for the relief of pain and reduction of fever.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for the temporary relief of minor aches and pains associated with various conditions, including headache, muscular aches, minor pain of arthritis, toothache, backache, the common cold, and menstrual cramps. Additionally, it is indicated for the temporary reduction of fever.

There are no teratogenic or nonteratogenic effects associated with this drug.

Dosage and Administration

The medication should be administered according to the following guidelines to ensure safety and efficacy.

For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 1 tablet every 4 to 6 hours as needed while symptoms persist. If pain or fever does not adequately respond to 1 tablet, a maximum of 2 tablets may be taken. It is imperative that the total dosage does not exceed 6 tablets within a 24-hour period, unless otherwise directed by a healthcare professional.

For children under 12 years of age, it is advised to consult a doctor for appropriate dosing recommendations.

Healthcare professionals should emphasize the importance of using the smallest effective dose and adhering strictly to the prescribed dosage to avoid potential adverse effects.

Contraindications

Use is contraindicated in patients with a history of allergic reactions to ibuprofen or any other pain reliever or fever reducer, due to the risk of severe hypersensitivity reactions. Additionally, the product should not be administered immediately before or after heart surgery, as it may interfere with postoperative recovery and increase the risk of complications.

Warnings and Precautions

Ibuprofen may induce severe allergic reactions, particularly in individuals with a known allergy to aspirin. Symptoms indicative of an allergic response may include hives, facial swelling, asthma (wheezing), shock, skin reddening, rash, and blisters. In the event of an allergic reaction, it is imperative to discontinue use immediately and seek medical assistance.

This product contains a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), which is associated with an increased risk of severe stomach bleeding. The likelihood of this adverse effect is heightened in patients who are 60 years of age or older, have a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding disorders, are concurrently using anticoagulants or steroid medications, are taking other NSAIDs (including aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen), consume three or more alcoholic beverages daily while using this product, or exceed the recommended dosage or duration of use.

Furthermore, NSAIDs, excluding aspirin, are linked to an elevated risk of heart attack, heart failure, and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk is particularly pronounced in individuals who use the medication in excess of the recommended dosage or for extended periods.

In cases of overdose, immediate medical attention is required. Healthcare professionals should advise patients to contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 without delay.

Patients should be instructed to discontinue use and consult a physician if they experience any of the following symptoms indicative of stomach bleeding: feeling faint, vomiting blood, having bloody or black stools, or experiencing persistent stomach pain. Additionally, symptoms suggestive of heart problems or stroke, such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, unilateral weakness, slurred speech, or leg swelling, warrant immediate medical evaluation. Patients should also seek medical advice if pain worsens or persists beyond 10 days, if fever intensifies or lasts more than 3 days, if redness or swelling occurs in the affected area, or if any new symptoms arise.

Side Effects

Patients using ibuprofen may experience a range of adverse reactions, which can be categorized by seriousness and frequency.

Severe allergic reactions have been reported, particularly in individuals with a known allergy to aspirin. Symptoms of such reactions may include hives, facial swelling, asthma (wheezing), shock, skin reddening, rash, and blisters.

The use of ibuprofen, as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), carries a significant risk of severe stomach bleeding. This risk is heightened in patients who are 60 years of age or older, have a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding problems, are taking anticoagulants or steroid medications, consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using the product, or exceed the recommended dosage or duration of use.

Additionally, NSAIDs, excluding aspirin, are associated with an increased risk of heart attack, heart failure, and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk is particularly pronounced in patients who use ibuprofen in higher doses or for extended periods.

Patients are advised to discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if they experience any signs of stomach bleeding, such as feeling faint, vomiting blood, having bloody or black stools, or experiencing persistent stomach pain. Symptoms indicative of heart problems or stroke, including chest pain, difficulty breathing, unilateral weakness, slurred speech, or leg swelling, also warrant immediate medical attention. Furthermore, patients should seek medical advice if pain worsens or persists beyond 10 days, if fever intensifies or lasts more than three days, if redness or swelling occurs in the painful area, or if any new symptoms arise.

Before using ibuprofen, patients should consult a healthcare provider if they have a history of serious side effects from pain relievers or fever reducers, if the stomach bleeding warning applies to them, or if they have conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, liver cirrhosis, kidney disease, asthma, or a history of stroke. It is also recommended to seek advice if taking a diuretic or if under a doctor's care for any serious condition.

Patients taking aspirin for the prevention of heart attack or stroke should be aware that ibuprofen may diminish the cardioprotective effects of aspirin and should consult a healthcare professional before use.

Drug Interactions

Ibuprofen has several notable interactions with other medications, particularly within the classes of anticoagulants and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Anticoagulants and Steroids Ibuprofen may interact with blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants) and steroid drugs. Caution is advised when these medications are co-administered, as the risk of bleeding may be increased. Monitoring for signs of bleeding is recommended, and dosage adjustments may be necessary based on clinical judgment.

Aspirin When ibuprofen is taken concurrently with aspirin for the prevention of heart attack or stroke, it may diminish the cardioprotective effects of aspirin. It is advisable to separate the administration of ibuprofen and aspirin by at least 8 hours to minimize this interaction.

Other NSAIDs The concomitant use of ibuprofen with other NSAIDs, including both prescription and nonprescription medications such as aspirin and naproxen, may lead to increased risk of adverse effects. It is recommended to avoid the use of multiple NSAIDs simultaneously unless specifically directed by a healthcare professional. Monitoring for gastrointestinal and renal adverse effects is also advised in such cases.

Packaging & NDC

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Berkley and Jensen Ibuprofen (ibuprofen). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Pediatric Use

Pediatric patients under 12 years of age should consult a healthcare professional before use. For adolescents aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 1 tablet every 4 to 6 hours as needed while symptoms persist. In cases where pain or fever does not adequately respond to 1 tablet, 2 tablets may be administered. It is important to note that the maximum dosage should not exceed 6 tablets in a 24-hour period unless otherwise directed by a healthcare provider.

Geriatric Use

Elderly patients, particularly those aged 60 and older, are at an increased risk of severe stomach bleeding when using this medication. It is essential for healthcare providers to consider this heightened risk when prescribing and monitoring treatment in this population.

Additionally, the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), excluding aspirin, is associated with an elevated risk of cardiovascular events, including heart attack, heart failure, and stroke. This risk is further amplified in geriatric patients, especially when these medications are used in dosages exceeding the recommended limits or for durations longer than advised.

Healthcare providers should exercise caution, closely monitor elderly patients for signs of gastrointestinal bleeding and cardiovascular complications, and consider appropriate dose adjustments to mitigate these risks.

Pregnancy

Pregnant patients should consult a healthcare professional before using this medication, especially if they are in the later stages of pregnancy or breastfeeding. The use of ibuprofen is particularly discouraged after 20 weeks of gestation unless explicitly directed by a physician, as it may pose risks to the developing fetus and lead to complications during delivery. Healthcare providers should carefully evaluate the potential benefits and risks when considering the use of this medication in pregnant patients.

Lactation

Lactating mothers are advised to consult a health professional before using this medication. It is particularly important to avoid the use of ibuprofen at 20 weeks of gestation or later unless specifically directed by a physician, as it may pose risks to the unborn child or lead to complications during delivery. There is no specific data provided regarding the excretion of ibuprofen in breast milk or its effects on breastfed infants. Therefore, healthcare providers should weigh the potential benefits against any risks when considering the use of this medication in lactating mothers.

Renal Impairment

Patients with renal impairment should consult a healthcare professional prior to use, particularly if they have a history of kidney disease. It is essential to assess the patient's overall health status, including any comorbid conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, liver cirrhosis, asthma, or a history of stroke, as these factors may influence the management of therapy in individuals with reduced kidney function. Monitoring and potential dosing adjustments may be necessary based on the patient's renal status and associated health conditions.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment should consult a healthcare professional prior to use, particularly if they have a history of liver cirrhosis. It is essential for these patients to discuss their liver function status, as compromised liver function may influence the safety and efficacy of the treatment. Monitoring of liver function may be warranted in this population to ensure appropriate management and to mitigate potential risks associated with the use of the medication.

Overdosage

In the event of an overdose, it is imperative to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center without delay. The national Poison Control Center can be reached at 1-800-222-1222.

Healthcare professionals should be aware that timely intervention is crucial in managing overdose situations. Symptoms of overdose may vary depending on the substance involved, and it is essential to monitor the patient closely for any signs of adverse reactions.

Management of an overdose typically involves supportive care and symptomatic treatment. Healthcare providers should ensure that the patient is stabilized and may need to implement specific protocols based on the substance taken. Continuous assessment and monitoring of vital signs are recommended to guide further treatment decisions.

In summary, prompt action and appropriate medical intervention are vital in the management of overdose cases to mitigate potential complications and ensure patient safety.

Nonclinical Toxicology

It is especially important not to use ibuprofen at 20 weeks or later in pregnancy unless definitely directed to do so by a doctor, as it may cause problems in the unborn child or complications during delivery. No specific non-teratogenic effects or additional nonclinical toxicology details are available in the provided data. Furthermore, there are no specific findings related to animal pharmacology and toxicology.

Postmarketing Experience

Postmarketing experience has identified the following adverse reactions reported voluntarily or through surveillance programs: hives, facial swelling, asthma (wheezing), shock, skin reddening, rash, and blisters. These events have been documented in the context of ongoing safety monitoring.

Patient Counseling

Patients should be advised to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 in the event of an overdose. It is recommended that patients take the medication with food or milk if they experience stomach upset.

Healthcare providers should encourage patients to consult a doctor before using this medication if they have experienced problems or serious side effects from pain relievers or fever reducers in the past. Additionally, patients should be informed to ask a doctor before use if they have a history of stomach issues, such as heartburn, or if the stomach bleeding warning applies to them.

Patients with high blood pressure, heart disease, liver cirrhosis, kidney disease, asthma, or a history of stroke should also be advised to consult a doctor prior to use. Furthermore, it is important for patients to discuss their use of diuretics with their healthcare provider before starting this medication.

Patients taking aspirin for heart attack or stroke should be cautioned to speak with a doctor or pharmacist, as ibuprofen may reduce the effectiveness of aspirin in these situations. Lastly, patients under a doctor's care for any serious condition or those taking any other medications should be encouraged to consult their healthcare provider or pharmacist before using this medication.

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in various package configurations, with specific NDC numbers available for identification. It should be stored at a controlled temperature range of 20-25°C (68-77°F). Care should be taken to avoid exposure to high humidity and excessive heat, particularly temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F). Proper storage conditions are essential to maintain the integrity and efficacy of the product.

Additional Clinical Information

Patients aged 12 years and older are advised to take 1 tablet every 4 to 6 hours as needed for symptom relief. If pain or fever does not adequately respond to 1 tablet, a maximum of 2 tablets may be taken. However, the total dosage should not exceed 6 tablets within a 24-hour period unless directed by a healthcare professional. For children under 12 years, consultation with a doctor is recommended prior to use.

Clinicians should counsel patients to read all warnings and directions before use. Proper storage conditions include maintaining a temperature between 20-25°C (68-77°F) and avoiding exposure to high humidity and temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F). No additional information is available regarding laboratory tests, abuse potential, or postmarketing experiences.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Berkley and Jensen Ibuprofen, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)