Ibuprofen

Description

Solubilized ibuprofen is formulated to provide an equivalent of 200 mg of ibuprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). The active ingredient is present in both its free acid form and as a potassium salt, facilitating enhanced solubility and bioavailability.

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 orally, with capsules taken every 4 to 6 hours as needed while symptoms persist. For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 1 capsule per administration. If pain or fever does not adequately respond to 1 capsule, a maximum of 2 capsules may be taken. It is imperative that the total dosage does not exceed 6 capsules 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 before administration. The smallest effective dose should always be utilized, and patients should not exceed the recommended dosage.

Contraindications

Use is contraindicated in patients with a history of allergic reactions to any pain reliever or fever reducer. Additionally, administration is contraindicated immediately before or after heart surgery due to potential complications associated with surgical recovery.

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 a risk of severe stomach bleeding. The likelihood of experiencing 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.

NSAIDs, with the exception of aspirin, are known to elevate the risk of heart attack, heart failure, and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk is particularly pronounced in patients who use the medication in excess of the recommended dosage or for an extended period.

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

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, the presence of bloody or black stools, vomiting blood, or persistent stomach pain. Additionally, symptoms suggestive of heart problems or stroke warrant immediate medical evaluation and include chest pain, slurred speech, difficulty breathing, leg swelling, or weakness localized to one side of the body. 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, 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 signs of stomach bleeding, such as feeling faint, having bloody or black stools, vomiting blood, or experiencing persistent stomach pain. Symptoms indicative of heart problems or stroke, including chest pain, slurred speech, difficulty breathing, leg swelling, or weakness on one side of the body, 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 3 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 stomach problems, high blood pressure, heart disease, liver cirrhosis, kidney disease, asthma, or a history of stroke. It is also important for patients to inform their doctor if they are taking diuretics or if the stomach bleeding warning applies to them. Additionally, those under medical care for serious conditions or taking aspirin for heart attack or stroke should seek guidance, as ibuprofen may diminish the cardioprotective effects of aspirin.

Drug Interactions

The concomitant use of ibuprofen with aspirin, particularly in the context of cardiovascular events such as heart attack or stroke, may diminish the therapeutic efficacy of aspirin. This interaction is significant and should be considered when prescribing ibuprofen to patients who are on aspirin therapy.

Ibuprofen also has the potential to interact with anticoagulants and steroid medications, which may elevate the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. This risk is further compounded when ibuprofen is used alongside other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including both prescription and over-the-counter options such as aspirin and naproxen.

Given these interactions, it is advisable for patients to consult with a healthcare professional prior to initiating ibuprofen if they are concurrently taking any other medications. Monitoring for signs of gastrointestinal bleeding is recommended in patients who are prescribed ibuprofen alongside anticoagulants, steroids, or other NSAIDs.

Packaging & NDC

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of 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 capsule every 4 to 6 hours as needed while symptoms persist. If pain or fever does not adequately respond to 1 capsule, 2 capsules may be administered. It is important not to exceed 6 capsules in a 24-hour period unless directed by a healthcare provider.

Geriatric Use

Elderly patients, particularly those aged 60 and older, are at an increased risk for severe stomach bleeding. It is advisable for healthcare providers to counsel these patients to consult a physician prior to use if they fall within this age group and the stomach bleeding warning is applicable.

Additionally, the risk of heart attack and stroke is heightened in geriatric patients who exceed the recommended dosage or duration of use. Therefore, careful monitoring and adherence to prescribed guidelines are essential to mitigate these risks in older adults. Healthcare providers should consider these factors when prescribing and managing treatment in the elderly population.

Pregnancy

Pregnant patients and women who are breastfeeding should consult a healthcare professional before using this medication. It is particularly important to avoid the use of ibuprofen during the last trimester of pregnancy unless specifically directed by a physician, as it may pose risks to the developing fetus and lead to complications during delivery. Healthcare providers should weigh the potential benefits against the risks when considering the use of this medication in pregnant patients, especially in the later stages of pregnancy.

Lactation

Lactating mothers are advised to consult a health professional before using this medication while breastfeeding. It is particularly important to avoid the use of ibuprofen during the last three months of pregnancy unless specifically directed by a healthcare provider, 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 this medication in breast milk or its effects on breastfed infants. Therefore, caution is recommended when considering its use in lactating individuals.

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 their renal function and the appropriateness of treatment. Monitoring and potential dosing adjustments may be necessary based on the patient's renal status to ensure safety and efficacy.

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 patients with hepatic impairment to ensure appropriate management and to mitigate potential risks associated with the use of this 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 the individual’s health status. Therefore, a thorough assessment of the patient is essential to determine the appropriate course of action.

Management of an overdose may include supportive care and symptomatic treatment, tailored to the specific symptoms presented. Continuous monitoring of the patient’s vital signs and clinical status is recommended to ensure prompt identification and management of any complications that may arise.

In summary, immediate medical attention and appropriate management strategies are vital in addressing overdose cases effectively.

Nonclinical Toxicology

It is especially important not to use ibuprofen during the last three months of 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 have been identified in the available data. Additionally, there are no details regarding nonclinical toxicology or animal pharmacology and toxicology provided in the current information.

Postmarketing Experience

Postmarketing experience has identified several adverse reactions associated with the use of ibuprofen. Reports indicate occurrences of gastrointestinal bleeding, renal impairment, and elevations in liver enzymes. Additionally, serious cardiovascular events, including myocardial infarction and stroke, have been reported.

Severe allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis and angioedema, have also been documented in the postmarketing setting. Other notable adverse reactions include skin reactions, specifically Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis. Furthermore, there have been reports of elevated blood pressure in patients taking ibuprofen, particularly among those with pre-existing hypertension.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 in the event of an overdose. It is crucial to inform patients that they should not use this medication if they have ever experienced an allergic reaction to any other pain reliever or fever reducer. Additionally, patients should be cautioned against using this product right before or after undergoing heart surgery.

Patients must be instructed to stop using the medication and consult a doctor if they experience any signs of stomach bleeding, which may include feeling faint, having bloody or black stools, vomiting blood, or experiencing persistent stomach pain. They should also be made aware of the symptoms indicative of heart problems or stroke, such as chest pain, slurred speech, difficulty breathing, leg swelling, or weakness on one side of the body, and advised to seek medical attention if these occur.

Healthcare providers should emphasize that patients need to stop using the medication and consult a doctor if their pain worsens or persists for more than 10 days, if their fever worsens or lasts more than 3 days, if there is redness or swelling in the painful area, or if any new symptoms arise.

When using this product, patients should be advised to take it with food or milk if they experience stomach upset. It is important for healthcare providers to encourage patients to consult a doctor before use if the warning regarding stomach bleeding applies to them, or if they have a history of stomach problems, such as heartburn.

Patients should also be advised to seek medical advice before using this medication if they have high blood pressure, heart disease, liver cirrhosis, kidney disease, asthma, or a history of stroke. Furthermore, they should be informed to consult a doctor before use if they are taking a diuretic or if they are under a doctor's care for any serious condition.

Lastly, patients should be encouraged to speak with a doctor or pharmacist before using this medication if they are taking aspirin for heart attack or stroke, as ibuprofen may diminish the benefits of aspirin, or if they are taking any other medications.

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 room temperature of 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F). Care must be taken to avoid exposure to excessive heat, specifically temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F). Proper storage conditions are essential to maintain the integrity and efficacy of the product.

Additional Clinical Information

No further data are available.

Drug Information (PDF)

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

View product document (PDF)