Pain Relief

Description

Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) available in liquid-filled capsule form, each containing 200 mg of ibuprofen. It is indicated for the relief of pain and reduction of fever. The product is packaged in a total of 300 softgels.

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

Patients should adhere strictly to the recommended dosage and not exceed the directed amount. The smallest effective dose should be utilized to manage symptoms effectively.

For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 1 capsule every 4 to 6 hours as needed while symptoms persist. If pain or fever does not adequately respond to 1 capsule, a maximum of 2 capsules may be administered. However, it is imperative not to exceed 6 capsules within a 24-hour period unless otherwise directed by a healthcare professional.

For children under 12 years of age, it is advised to consult a doctor before 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 the potential for adverse cardiovascular events.

Patients should discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if they experience signs of stomach bleeding, including feeling faint, vomiting blood, having bloody or black stools, or persistent stomach pain. Symptoms indicative of heart problems or stroke, such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, unilateral weakness, slurred speech, or leg swelling, warrant immediate medical attention.

Further contraindications include worsening pain lasting more than 10 days, fever persisting beyond 3 days, presence of redness or swelling in the affected area, or the emergence of any new symptoms.

Warnings and Precautions

Ibuprofen may cause severe allergic reactions, particularly in individuals with a known allergy to aspirin. Symptoms of an allergic reaction 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 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 blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants) or steroid drugs, 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 elevated risk of heart attack, heart failure, and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk is particularly pronounced in individuals who use the medication in excess of the recommended dosage or for extended periods.

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.

Patients should discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider 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, patients should seek medical advice if they exhibit symptoms suggestive of heart problems or stroke, such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, unilateral weakness, slurred speech, or leg swelling. Other reasons to stop use include worsening pain lasting more than 10 days, a 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 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 painful area, or if any new symptoms arise.

Before using ibuprofen, patients should consult a healthcare provider if they have a history of stomach problems, such as heartburn, 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 important for patients to inform their healthcare provider if they are taking diuretics or if they are under medical care for any serious condition. Additionally, patients taking aspirin for heart attack or stroke should be aware that 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 Pain Relief (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 years and older, are at an increased risk of severe stomach bleeding. This risk is further heightened in individuals who have a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding problems, are concurrently using blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants) or steroid drugs, or are taking other medications that contain prescription or nonprescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Additionally, the risk of stomach bleeding is amplified in geriatric patients who consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product, or who exceed the recommended dosage or duration of use.

Healthcare providers should exercise caution when prescribing this product to elderly patients, ensuring appropriate monitoring and consideration of potential dose modifications based on individual risk factors.

Pregnancy

Pregnant patients and women 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. The use of ibuprofen during this period may be associated with potential delivery complications and adverse fetal outcomes. Therefore, healthcare providers should carefully evaluate the risks and benefits before 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 lead to delivery complications for the unborn child. 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 risks and benefits when considering this medication for lactating mothers.

Renal Impairment

There is no specific information regarding dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations for patients with renal impairment. Healthcare professionals should exercise caution when prescribing to patients with reduced kidney function, as the absence of detailed guidance necessitates careful clinical judgment. Regular monitoring of renal function may be advisable in this patient population.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment have not been specifically studied in relation to the use of this medication. Consequently, there are no established dosage adjustments, special monitoring requirements, or precautions outlined for individuals with compromised liver function. It is recommended that healthcare providers exercise caution when prescribing this medication to patients with hepatic impairment, given the lack of data on its safety and efficacy in this population. Regular monitoring of liver function may be prudent in these cases, although specific parameters are not defined in the available information.

Overdosage

In the absence of specific information regarding overdosage, healthcare professionals are advised to exercise caution and adhere to general principles of management in cases of suspected overdose.

It is essential to monitor the patient closely for any potential symptoms that may arise from excessive dosing. Symptoms of overdosage can vary widely depending on the substance involved and the individual patient's response.

In the event of an overdose, immediate medical attention should be sought. Healthcare providers should implement supportive care measures, which may include monitoring vital signs, providing symptomatic treatment, and ensuring the patient's safety.

If available, consultation with a poison control center or a medical toxicologist is recommended to guide the management of the overdose. Additionally, healthcare professionals should refer to local protocols and guidelines for the management of overdose situations, as these may provide specific recommendations based on the substance involved.

Documentation of the incident, including the amount ingested and the time of ingestion, is crucial for effective management and follow-up care.

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 delivery 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. These include allergic reactions such as hives, facial swelling, asthma (wheezing), shock, skin reddening, rash, and blisters. Additionally, cases of stomach bleeding have been noted, particularly in individuals over 60 years of age, those with a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding problems, and those concurrently using anticoagulants or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). There is also an increased risk of heart attack, heart failure, and stroke associated with NSAID use, especially when used at higher doses or for extended durations beyond the recommended guidelines.

Patient Counseling

Patients should be advised to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center 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 before using this medication if they have a warning regarding stomach bleeding. Additionally, patients with a history of problems or serious side effects from pain relievers or fever reducers should also seek medical advice prior to use.

Patients with a history of stomach issues, such as heartburn, should be advised to discuss their condition with a healthcare provider before taking this medication. It is important for patients with high blood pressure, heart disease, liver cirrhosis, kidney disease, asthma, or those who have had a stroke to consult a doctor before use.

Patients taking a diuretic should be instructed to ask their doctor before using this medication. Furthermore, those under a doctor's care for any serious condition should consult with their healthcare provider or pharmacist prior to use.

Patients should also 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 this context. Lastly, patients should be encouraged to consult a healthcare professional before using this medication if they are taking any other drugs.

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in various package configurations, with specific NDC numbers available for identification. It should be stored at a temperature range of 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F). Care must be taken to avoid exposure to excessive heat, specifically temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F). Additionally, the product must be protected from light to maintain its integrity and efficacy.

Additional Clinical Information

The medication is administered orally. Clinicians should advise patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding to consult a health professional prior to use. It is particularly critical to avoid ibuprofen after 20 weeks of pregnancy unless specifically directed by a physician, as it may lead to delivery complications for the unborn child or during the delivery process.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Pain Relief, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

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