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, 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 physician 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.

The use of ibuprofen, an NSAID, carries a significant risk of severe stomach bleeding. This risk is notably elevated in patients who are aged 60 years 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 treatment.

Additionally, NSAIDs, excluding aspirin, are associated with an increased risk of heart attack, heart failure, and stroke, which can be fatal. The likelihood of these serious cardiovascular events is heightened with the use of higher than recommended doses or prolonged use.

In cases of overdose, immediate medical attention is required. Healthcare professionals should advise patients to contact a Poison Control Center (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, having bloody or black stools, or experiencing persistent stomach pain. Furthermore, symptoms suggestive of heart problems or stroke, such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, unilateral weakness, slurred speech, or leg swelling, warrant immediate medical evaluation.

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. Regular monitoring and assessment of these parameters are essential for the safe use of ibuprofen.

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 the medication beyond the directed dosage or for an extended period.

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 experiencing 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 affected area, or if any new symptoms arise.

Before using ibuprofen, patients should consult a healthcare provider 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 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

Ibuprofen has the potential to diminish the cardioprotective effects of aspirin when both medications are administered 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 at least 30 minutes after or 8 hours before aspirin 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 tablet every 4 to 6 hours as needed while symptoms persist. If pain or fever does not adequately respond to 1 tablet, 2 tablets may be administered. It is important not to exceed 6 tablets 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. This risk is further heightened when the medication is used inappropriately, such as exceeding the recommended dosage or duration of use, which can also elevate the likelihood of heart attack and stroke in older adults.

For geriatric patients experiencing gastrointestinal discomfort, it is advisable to take the medication with food or milk, as they may exhibit heightened sensitivity to gastrointestinal side effects. It is crucial to utilize the smallest effective dose in this population to mitigate the potential for adverse effects, given their increased sensitivity.

Additionally, healthcare providers should exercise caution and consider consulting with a physician if elderly patients have a history of stomach problems, high blood pressure, heart disease, liver cirrhosis, kidney disease, or asthma, as these conditions are more prevalent among older adults and may influence the safety and efficacy of the treatment. Regular monitoring and appropriate dose modifications may be necessary to ensure the well-being of geriatric 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 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.

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 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 renal function and consider any potential impacts on drug clearance. Monitoring may be necessary to ensure safety and efficacy in this population, especially in the context of concurrent conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, liver cirrhosis, asthma, or a history of stroke.

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. Healthcare professionals are advised to contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance on managing the situation effectively.

Prompt intervention is crucial to mitigate potential adverse effects associated with an overdose. Symptoms may vary depending on the substance involved, and healthcare providers should be prepared to assess and manage these symptoms accordingly.

Management procedures may include supportive care and symptomatic treatment, tailored to the specific clinical presentation of the patient. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure patient safety and to address any complications that may arise during the course of treatment.

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 the product. Reports have included gastrointestinal bleeding, renal impairment, and cardiovascular events. Serious skin reactions, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis, have also been documented. Additionally, cases of liver enzyme elevations and liver failure have been reported.

Anaphylactic reactions, including angioedema and bronchospasm, have been noted in postmarketing reports. Furthermore, there have been instances of hypertension and heart failure linked to the use of ibuprofen. Postmarketing surveillance has indicated an increased risk of thrombotic events, including myocardial infarction and stroke, particularly in patients with pre-existing cardiovascular risk factors.

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 for patients to understand the importance of prompt action in such situations.

Additionally, healthcare providers should recommend that patients take the medication with food or milk if they experience any stomach upset. This guidance can help mitigate gastrointestinal discomfort and enhance the overall tolerability of the treatment.

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in accordance with the following specifications: it should be stored at a temperature range of 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F), adhering to the guidelines set forth by USP Controlled Room Temperature. It is imperative to avoid exposure to excessive heat, specifically temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F), to maintain product integrity. Proper storage conditions are essential for ensuring the efficacy and safety 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)