Ibuprofen

Description

Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) indicated for the relief of pain and reduction of fever. Each tablet contains 200 mg of ibuprofen. The product is presented in the form of coated caplets, which are capsule-shaped. The packaging includes 50 coated caplets, and the actual size of the tablets is as specified.

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

Adults and children 12 years and older are advised to take 1 caplet every 4 to 6 hours as needed while symptoms persist. In cases where pain or fever does not adequately respond to 1 caplet, a dosage of 2 caplets may be administered. It is imperative that the total daily dosage does not exceed 6 caplets within a 24-hour period, unless otherwise directed by a healthcare professional.

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

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 cause severe allergic reactions, particularly in individuals with a known allergy to aspirin. Symptoms of such reactions can 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 taking anticoagulants or steroid medications, are using 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, excluding aspirin, are also 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 higher doses or extend the duration of treatment beyond the recommended guidelines.

Ibuprofen should not be used in patients with a history of allergic reactions to ibuprofen or any other pain reliever or fever reducer. Additionally, it is contraindicated for use immediately before or after heart surgery.

Healthcare professionals should advise patients to discontinue use and consult a physician if they experience any signs of stomach bleeding, which may include feeling faint, vomiting blood, having bloody or black stools, or experiencing persistent stomach pain. Patients should also seek medical advice if they exhibit symptoms indicative of heart problems or stroke, such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, unilateral weakness, slurred speech, or leg swelling. Furthermore, if pain worsens or persists beyond 10 days, fever intensifies or lasts more than 3 days, redness or swelling occurs in the affected area, or any new symptoms arise, medical consultation is warranted.

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

Side Effects

Patients may experience a range of adverse reactions associated with the use of this product, which contains an NSAID. Serious adverse reactions include severe allergic reactions, which may manifest as hives, facial swelling, asthma (wheezing), shock, skin reddening, rash, or blisters, particularly in individuals with a known allergy to aspirin.

The use of this NSAID is also associated with an increased risk of severe stomach bleeding, especially 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. Signs of stomach bleeding that warrant immediate medical attention include feeling faint, vomiting blood, having bloody or black stools, or experiencing persistent stomach pain.

Additionally, there is a warning regarding the increased risk of heart attack, heart failure, and stroke associated with NSAID use, excluding aspirin. This risk is heightened when the medication is used in excess of the recommended dosage or for prolonged periods. Patients should seek medical advice if they experience symptoms indicative of heart problems or stroke, such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, unilateral weakness, slurred speech, or leg swelling.

Common adverse reactions may include worsening pain lasting more than 10 days, fever persisting beyond three days, or the presence of redness or swelling in the affected area. Patients are advised to consult a healthcare professional if any new symptoms arise.

Before using this product, patients should consult a doctor 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 medical advice if taking aspirin for heart attack or stroke, as ibuprofen may diminish the cardioprotective effects of aspirin.

Drug Interactions

Ibuprofen may diminish the cardioprotective effects of aspirin when used for the prevention of heart attack or stroke. It is advisable to avoid concurrent use of ibuprofen with aspirin in patients who are taking aspirin for cardiovascular protection. Monitoring for efficacy of aspirin therapy is recommended in such cases.

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 and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 1 caplet every 4 to 6 hours as needed while symptoms persist. If pain or fever does not adequately respond to 1 caplet, a dose of 2 caplets may be administered. It is important not to exceed 6 caplets within 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 of severe stomach bleeding when using this product, which contains a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It is essential for healthcare providers to exercise caution when prescribing this medication to geriatric patients, especially those with a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding problems.

Special precautions should be taken for elderly patients who are concurrently using blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants) or steroid drugs, as well as those taking other prescription or nonprescription NSAIDs. Additionally, patients who consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product may face heightened risks.

Healthcare providers should closely monitor geriatric patients for any signs of gastrointestinal bleeding and consider dose modifications or alternative therapies as necessary to ensure patient safety.

Pregnancy

Pregnant patients and those who are breastfeeding should consult a healthcare professional before using this medication. It is particularly important to avoid the use of ibuprofen after 20 weeks 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 carefully consider the potential benefits and risks when prescribing this medication to 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 ibuprofen in breast milk or its effects on breastfed infants. Therefore, caution is recommended when considering the use of this medication 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 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. Healthcare professionals should advise patients or caregivers to call the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance.

Prompt 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 and monitoring of the patient are essential to determine the appropriate course of action.

Management procedures may include supportive care, symptomatic treatment, and, if applicable, the administration of specific antidotes. Continuous evaluation of the patient's condition is necessary to address any complications that may arise during the management of an overdose.

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 specific details regarding nonclinical toxicology or animal pharmacology and toxicology provided in the text.

Postmarketing Experience

Postmarketing experience has identified several adverse reactions associated with the use of ibuprofen. Reports have included gastrointestinal bleeding, renal impairment, and elevations in liver enzymes. Serious cardiovascular events, such as myocardial infarction and stroke, have also been reported. Instances of severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis and angioedema, have been documented.

Additionally, skin reactions, notably Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis, have been observed. Elevated blood pressure has been reported in patients taking ibuprofen. Postmarketing surveillance has noted cases of hepatotoxicity, including liver failure. Furthermore, there have been reports of gastrointestinal perforation and ulceration, with some cases resulting in fatal outcomes.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients to keep the medication out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion. In the event of an overdose, patients should be instructed to seek medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

Patients should be informed to take the medication with food or milk if they experience stomach upset. They should be cautioned to stop use and consult a doctor if they notice any signs of stomach bleeding, which may include feeling faint, vomiting blood, having bloody or black stools, or experiencing stomach pain that does not improve.

Additionally, patients should be advised to discontinue use and seek medical attention if they experience symptoms indicative of heart problems or stroke, such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, weakness on one side of the body, slurred speech, or swelling in the legs. They should also be instructed to 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.

Patients should be encouraged to ask a doctor before use if they have experienced problems or serious side effects from pain relievers or fever reducers in the past. It is also important for patients to consult a doctor if the warning regarding stomach bleeding applies to them, or if they have a history of stomach issues such as heartburn.

Furthermore, patients should be advised to seek medical advice before using the medication if they have high blood pressure, heart disease, liver cirrhosis, kidney disease, asthma, or a history of stroke. They should also consult a doctor if they are taking a diuretic or if they are using aspirin for heart attack or stroke, as ibuprofen may reduce the effectiveness of aspirin in these cases.

Lastly, patients should be encouraged to speak with a doctor or pharmacist before using the medication if they are under medical care for any serious condition 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 20-25°C (68-77°F). Care must be taken to avoid exposure to excessive heat, specifically temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F), to maintain product integrity. Proper container requirements should be adhered to, ensuring that the product is kept in suitable conditions to prevent degradation. Special handling needs should be observed to ensure the product remains within the recommended temperature range throughout its storage and handling processes.

Additional Clinical Information

The route of administration for the medication is oral. Clinicians should advise patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding to consult a health professional prior to use. It is particularly crucial to avoid ibuprofen during the last trimester of pregnancy unless specifically directed by a physician, as it may pose risks to the unborn child or lead to complications during delivery.

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)