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 a dosage form of coated tablets, with a total of 24 tablets per package.

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 tablet every 4 to 6 hours as needed while symptoms persist. In cases where pain or fever does not adequately respond to 1 tablet, a dosage of 2 tablets may be administered. It is imperative that the total daily 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 recommended to consult a doctor for appropriate dosing guidance.

Contraindications

Use of this product is contraindicated in patients with a history of allergic reactions to ibuprofen or any other pain reliever or fever reducer. Additionally, it should not be administered 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.

Furthermore, NSAIDs, excluding aspirin, are 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 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, vomiting blood, having bloody or black stools, or experiencing persistent stomach pain. Additionally, symptoms suggestive of heart problems or stroke warrant immediate medical evaluation, including chest pain, difficulty breathing, unilateral weakness, slurred speech, or leg swelling. 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 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 heart attack or stroke should consult a healthcare professional, as ibuprofen may diminish the cardioprotective effects of aspirin.

Drug Interactions

Patients should consult a healthcare professional prior to using this medication if they are concurrently taking anticoagulants or steroid medications. The combination may increase the risk of adverse effects, necessitating careful monitoring and potential dosage adjustments.

Additionally, individuals using other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including both prescription and over-the-counter options such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen, should seek advice from a healthcare provider. The concurrent use of these medications may elevate the risk of gastrointestinal complications and other side effects.

It is particularly important for patients taking aspirin for cardiovascular protection (e.g., to prevent heart attack or stroke) to consult a physician before using ibuprofen. The use of ibuprofen may diminish the cardioprotective effects of aspirin, which could have significant clinical implications.

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. It is important to assess the appropriateness of treatment and dosage for this age group, as specific recommendations may vary based on individual health needs and conditions.

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, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), with the exception of aspirin, are associated with an elevated risk of cardiovascular events, including heart attack, heart failure, and stroke. This risk is further amplified in elderly patients who exceed the recommended dosage or duration of use. Therefore, careful assessment of the benefits and risks, along with appropriate dose adjustments and close monitoring, is crucial when treating geriatric patients with NSAIDs.

Pregnancy

Pregnant patients and women of childbearing potential 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 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 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 during lactation.

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 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 liver cirrhosis, dosage adjustments may be necessary, and careful consideration should be given to the severity of hepatic impairment when determining the appropriate dose. Patients with significant liver dysfunction may require closer monitoring for efficacy and safety, as the risk of adverse effects may be increased.

Additionally, patients with a history of liver disease, including cirrhosis, should be evaluated for potential drug interactions and contraindications, particularly if they also have comorbid conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney disease, asthma, or a history of stroke. Regular assessment of liver function tests is recommended to ensure ongoing safety in this patient population.

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 and monitoring of the patient are essential.

Management procedures may include supportive care and symptomatic treatment, tailored to the specific symptoms presented. It is recommended that healthcare providers remain vigilant and prepared to implement appropriate interventions based on the clinical presentation of the patient.

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

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

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 recommended that patients take the medication with food or milk if they experience stomach upset.

Patients should be encouraged to consult with their healthcare provider before using this medication if they have experienced problems or serious side effects from pain relievers or fever reducers in the past. Additionally, it is important for patients to discuss any history of stomach issues, such as heartburn, as well as any applicable stomach bleeding warnings.

Healthcare providers should inquire about the patient's medical history, specifically regarding high blood pressure, heart disease, liver cirrhosis, kidney disease, asthma, or previous strokes, as these conditions may necessitate caution. Patients taking diuretics should also be advised to consult their doctor prior to use.

Furthermore, patients should be informed to speak with their doctor or pharmacist if they are taking aspirin for heart attack or stroke, as ibuprofen may reduce the effectiveness of aspirin in these situations. It is also prudent for patients to consult their healthcare provider or pharmacist if they are under 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 reference. 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, which should not exceed 40°C (104°F). For quality assurance, users are advised to check the end panel for the lot number and expiration date.

Additional Clinical Information

Patients should take the medication orally, with a recommended dosage of 1 tablet every 4 to 6 hours as needed for symptom relief. If symptoms do not improve with 1 tablet, 2 tablets may be taken. However, the total daily dosage should not exceed 6 tablets within a 24-hour period unless otherwise directed by a healthcare professional.

Clinicians should advise patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding to consult a health professional before use. It is particularly important to avoid ibuprofen after 20 weeks of pregnancy unless specifically instructed by a doctor, as it may pose risks to the unborn child or lead to complications during delivery. Additionally, patients should keep the medication out of reach of children and seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 in the event of an overdose.

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)