Ibuprofen

Description

No relevant information is available for SPL code 34089-3.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for the temporary relief of minor aches and pains associated with various conditions, including headache, toothache, backache, menstrual cramps, the common cold, muscular aches, and minor pain of arthritis. 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 aged 12 years and over are instructed to take 1 capsule every 4 to 6 hours as needed while symptoms persist. In cases where pain or fever does not adequately respond to 1 capsule, a dosage of 2 capsules may be administered. It is imperative that the total daily 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 recommended to consult a doctor prior to administration.

Contraindications

Use is contraindicated in patients with a history of allergic reactions to any other 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 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 carries a risk of severe stomach bleeding. The likelihood of this adverse effect is increased 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 associated with an elevated risk of heart attack, heart failure, and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk is heightened when the medication is used in excess of the recommended dosage or for prolonged periods.

Healthcare professionals should advise patients to consult a physician prior to use if any of the following conditions apply: a history of stomach bleeding, adverse reactions to pain relievers or fever reducers, previous stomach issues such as heartburn, high blood pressure, heart disease, liver cirrhosis, kidney disease, asthma, or a history of stroke. Additionally, patients taking diuretics or those under medical supervision for serious conditions should seek medical advice before using ibuprofen. It is also important to inform patients that ibuprofen may diminish the cardioprotective effects of aspirin when taken concurrently.

In the event of an allergic reaction, patients should stop using the product and seek emergency medical help immediately. In cases of overdose, it is crucial to contact a Poison Control Center or seek medical assistance without delay (1-800-222-1222).

Patients should be instructed to discontinue use and contact their healthcare provider if they experience any signs of stomach bleeding, such as feeling faint, vomiting blood, having bloody or black stools, or experiencing persistent stomach pain. Additionally, they should seek medical attention if they exhibit symptoms indicative of heart problems or stroke, including chest pain, difficulty breathing, unilateral weakness, slurred speech, or leg swelling. Patients should also stop taking ibuprofen if their 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 may experience a range of adverse reactions associated with the use of this product, which contains ibuprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).

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. In the event of an allergic reaction, patients should discontinue use immediately and seek medical assistance.

The use of this NSAID is also associated with an increased risk of severe stomach bleeding, particularly 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. Patients should be vigilant for signs of stomach bleeding, which may manifest as 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.

Patients are advised to discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if pain worsens or persists beyond 10 days, if fever worsens or lasts more than 3 days, if redness or swelling occurs in the affected area, or if any new symptoms arise.

Before using this product, 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 recommended that patients under a doctor's care for serious conditions or those taking aspirin for cardiovascular protection consult a healthcare professional, as ibuprofen may diminish the cardioprotective effects of aspirin.

Drug Interactions

Ibuprofen may interact with several classes of medications, leading to potential adverse effects and reduced therapeutic efficacy.

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) When ibuprofen is taken concurrently with other NSAIDs, including both prescription and nonprescription options such as aspirin and naproxen, there is an increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. It is advisable for patients to avoid the combined use of these medications unless directed by a healthcare professional.

Anticoagulants and Steroids Patients who are on anticoagulant therapy or corticosteroids should exercise caution when using ibuprofen, as the concomitant use may elevate the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. Close monitoring for signs of bleeding is recommended in these patients.

Diuretics Patients taking diuretics should consult their healthcare provider prior to initiating ibuprofen therapy. The interaction may necessitate dosage adjustments or increased monitoring to ensure safety and efficacy.

Aspirin for Cardiovascular Protection Ibuprofen may diminish the cardioprotective effects of aspirin when used for the prevention of heart attack or stroke. Patients should discuss alternative pain management strategies with their healthcare provider to avoid compromising cardiovascular protection.

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. In cases where pain or fever does not adequately respond to 1 capsule, a dose of 2 capsules may be administered. It is important to note that the maximum dosage should not exceed 6 capsules within 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. It is advised that healthcare providers inquire about this risk before prescribing treatment, especially if the stomach bleeding warning is applicable to the patient.

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 evaluating treatment options for elderly patients.

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 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 the risks when considering this medication for 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 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 tests may be warranted to ensure appropriate management and to mitigate potential risks associated with the use of this medication in individuals with hepatic impairment.

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, as symptoms may vary depending on the substance involved. Therefore, a thorough assessment of the patient's condition is essential to determine the appropriate course of action.

Management procedures 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 safety and effectiveness of the treatment provided.

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 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 reported voluntarily or through surveillance programs.

Allergic reactions have been noted, including cases of anaphylaxis, angioedema, and various skin reactions such as rash, pruritus, and urticaria. Cardiovascular events reported include myocardial infarction and stroke. Gastrointestinal events have encompassed gastrointestinal bleeding, ulceration, and perforation.

Renal adverse events have been documented, including acute renal failure and interstitial nephritis. Hepatic adverse events have also been reported, characterized by elevated liver enzymes and hepatitis. Hematologic events include instances of thrombocytopenia and aplastic anemia. Additionally, central nervous system events such as dizziness and headache have been observed.

Patient Counseling

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

Patients must be informed not to use this medication if they have ever experienced an allergic reaction to any other pain reliever or fever reducer. Additionally, it should not be used right before or after heart surgery.

Healthcare providers should instruct patients to stop using the medication and consult a doctor if they experience 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. Patients should also be advised to seek medical attention if they exhibit symptoms 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.

Patients should be counseled to discontinue use 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 take it with food or milk if they experience stomach upset. Healthcare providers should encourage patients to ask a doctor before use if the stomach bleeding warning applies to them or if they have a history of stomach problems, such as heartburn.

Patients with high blood pressure, heart disease, liver cirrhosis, kidney disease, asthma, or a history of stroke should also consult a doctor before using this medication. Furthermore, patients taking a diuretic or any other medications should seek advice from a doctor or pharmacist prior to use. It is particularly important for patients taking aspirin for heart attack or stroke to consult a healthcare professional, as ibuprofen may diminish the benefits of aspirin.

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in various package configurations, with specific NDC numbers available upon request. It should be stored at a controlled room temperature of 20-25ºC (68-77ºF). 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)