Ibuprofen

Description

Ibuprofen Tablets are formulated as 200 mg coated caplets, serving as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) indicated for pain relief and fever reduction. Each tablet is capsule-shaped, designed for ease of swallowing. The product is supplied in a package containing 100 coated caplets.

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 aged 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 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.

The use of NSAIDs, excluding aspirin, is linked to an increased risk of heart attack, heart failure, and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk escalates with the use of higher doses or prolonged treatment beyond the recommended guidelines.

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, passing bloody or black stools, or experiencing persistent stomach pain. Additionally, they should seek medical advice if they exhibit signs of heart problems or stroke, such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, unilateral weakness, slurred speech, or leg swelling. Other reasons to stop use and consult a healthcare provider include worsening pain lasting more than 10 days, fever that worsens or persists beyond three days, the presence of redness or swelling in the affected area, or the emergence of any new symptoms.

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 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 experienced serious side effects from pain relievers or fever reducers, if the stomach bleeding warning applies to them, or if they have a history of stomach issues such as heartburn. Those with high blood pressure, heart disease, liver cirrhosis, kidney disease, asthma, or a history of stroke should also seek medical advice prior to use. Additionally, patients taking diuretics or aspirin for cardiovascular protection should consult a healthcare professional, as ibuprofen may diminish the effectiveness of aspirin.

Drug Interactions

Ibuprofen may diminish the cardioprotective effects of aspirin when used concurrently for the prevention of heart attack or stroke. It is advisable to monitor patients closely for any signs of reduced efficacy of aspirin in such scenarios. Consideration should be given to the timing of administration, as taking ibuprofen and aspirin at different times may help mitigate this interaction.

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 caplet every 4 to 6 hours as needed while symptoms persist. If pain or fever does not adequately respond to 1 caplet, 2 caplets may be administered. It is important not to exceed 6 caplets in a 24-hour period unless directed by a healthcare provider.

Geriatric Use

Elderly patients, particularly those aged 60 and older, may have an increased risk of stomach bleeding when using this medication. Therefore, it is essential to exercise caution and monitor for any signs of gastrointestinal bleeding in this population.

Additionally, the risk of heart attack and stroke is heightened in elderly patients who use the medication in excess of the recommended dosage or for an extended duration. Healthcare providers should ensure that the smallest effective dose is utilized to mitigate these risks.

Close monitoring and appropriate dose adjustments are recommended for geriatric patients to enhance safety and minimize potential adverse effects associated with the use of this medication.

Pregnancy

Pregnant patients should consult a healthcare professional before using this medication, particularly if they are in the later stages of pregnancy or breastfeeding. It is crucial to avoid the use of ibuprofen during the last trimester unless specifically directed by a physician, as it may pose risks to the developing fetus and lead to complications during delivery.

Lactation

Lactating mothers are advised to consult a health 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 unborn child or lead to complications during delivery. There is no specific data available 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 while breastfeeding.

Renal Impairment

Patients with renal impairment may require careful consideration regarding dosing adjustments and monitoring. In individuals with reduced kidney function, particularly those with comorbid conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, liver cirrhosis, or a history of stroke, it is essential to assess renal function prior to initiating therapy. Regular monitoring of renal parameters is recommended to ensure safe and effective use of the medication in this population. Adjustments to the dosing regimen may be necessary based on the degree of renal impairment to mitigate the risk of adverse effects and optimize therapeutic outcomes.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment may experience altered pharmacokinetics of the medication. It is essential to assess liver function prior to initiating treatment and to monitor liver function periodically during therapy.

In patients with significant liver impairment, such as those with liver cirrhosis, dosage adjustments may be necessary to avoid potential toxicity. The prescribing physician should evaluate the severity of hepatic impairment and consider the need for dose modifications based on clinical judgment and patient response.

Additionally, patients with hepatic impairment should be monitored closely for any signs of adverse reactions or changes in liver function, as these may indicate the need for further adjustments in therapy or discontinuation of the medication.

It is recommended that healthcare providers remain vigilant in managing patients with compromised liver function to ensure safe and effective 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, as timely medical support can significantly influence outcomes. 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.

Management procedures should include supportive care and symptomatic treatment as necessary. Healthcare providers are encouraged to follow established protocols for overdose management, which may involve decontamination, administration of antidotes if applicable, and continuous monitoring of vital signs.

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 current information.

Postmarketing Experience

Postmarketing experience has identified several adverse reactions reported voluntarily or through surveillance programs.

Allergic reactions have been noted, including hives, facial swelling, asthma (wheezing), shock, skin reddening, rash, and blisters. Additionally, cases of stomach bleeding have been reported, particularly in patients with a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding problems. There is also an association with an increased risk of heart attack and stroke with the use of NSAIDs, including ibuprofen, especially when used in excess or for prolonged periods.

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 prior to use if they have experienced problems or serious side effects from pain relievers or fever reducers. 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 before using this medication. Furthermore, it is important for patients to discuss their use of diuretics with their healthcare provider prior to use.

Patients taking aspirin for the prevention of heart attack or stroke should be cautioned to speak with a doctor or pharmacist before using this medication, as ibuprofen may diminish the effectiveness of aspirin. 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 use.

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in various configurations, with specific NDC numbers available for reference. It should be stored at a controlled room temperature of 20-25°C (68-77°F). Care must be taken to avoid exposure to high humidity and excessive heat, which should not exceed 40°C (104°F). For proper tracking and quality assurance, the lot number and expiration date can be found on the end panel of the packaging.

Additional Clinical Information

Adults and children aged 12 years and older are advised to take 1 caplet every 4 to 6 hours while symptoms persist. If pain or fever does not respond to 1 caplet, 2 caplets may be used, but the total should not exceed 6 caplets in a 24-hour period unless directed by a physician. For children under 12 years, consultation with a doctor is recommended.

Patients should be counseled to read all warnings and directions prior to use. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should seek advice from a healthcare professional before use, particularly during the last trimester of pregnancy, as ibuprofen may pose risks to the unborn child or lead to complications during delivery. It is crucial to keep the medication out of reach of children, and in the event of an overdose, medical assistance should be sought immediately or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

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.

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