Ibuprofen

Description

Ibuprofen Tablets, USP contain 200 mg of ibuprofen per tablet. This formulation serves as a pain reliever and fever reducer. The product is comparable to the active ingredient found in Motrin® IB Caplets. Each package contains 40 caplets.

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 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 prior to administration.

Contraindications

Use is contraindicated in patients with a history of allergic reactions to any 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 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 carries a risk of severe stomach bleeding. The likelihood of 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 steroids, 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 associated with an increased risk of heart attack, heart failure, and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk is amplified when the medication is used in excess of the recommended dosage or for an extended period.

Healthcare professionals should advise patients to discontinue use and consult a physician if they experience any signs of stomach bleeding, which may manifest as feeling faint, vomiting blood, having bloody or black stools, or experiencing persistent stomach pain. Additionally, patients should seek medical attention if they exhibit symptoms suggestive of heart problems or stroke, including chest pain, difficulty breathing, unilateral weakness, slurred speech, leg swelling, or if pain worsens or persists beyond 10 days. Patients should also be instructed to contact a healthcare provider if fever worsens or lasts more than three days, if redness or swelling occurs in the affected area, or if any new symptoms arise.

In the event of an overdose, immediate medical assistance should be sought, or the Poison Control Center should be contacted at 1-800-222-1222.

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, 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 the medication beyond the directed dosage or duration.

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 3 days, if redness or swelling occurs in the affected area, or if any new symptoms arise.

It is recommended that patients consult a healthcare provider prior to using ibuprofen if they have a history of stomach problems, high blood pressure, heart disease, liver cirrhosis, kidney disease, asthma, or a previous stroke. Those taking diuretics or under medical care for serious conditions should also seek guidance. Additionally, patients using aspirin for heart attack or stroke prevention 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 shortly before or after aspirin may further impact its effectiveness.

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 of severe stomach bleeding. This risk is further heightened in individuals with a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding problems, those who are taking blood thinners or steroid medications, and patients who consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily. It is crucial for healthcare providers to be aware of these factors when prescribing treatment to geriatric patients.

Recommended precautions for elderly patients include a thorough assessment of their medical history, particularly regarding any previous stomach issues, high blood pressure, heart disease, liver cirrhosis, kidney disease, asthma, or a history of stroke. In cases where the stomach bleeding warning is applicable, it is advised that these patients consult their healthcare provider prior to initiating treatment.

Healthcare providers should closely monitor elderly patients for any signs of gastrointestinal bleeding and consider appropriate dose modifications or alternative therapies as necessary to ensure patient safety.

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 receive appropriate medical guidance to assess the potential risks associated with their liver function. Monitoring of liver function may be necessary to ensure safety and efficacy during treatment. Adjustments to dosage or specific restrictions may be required based on the severity of hepatic impairment, and healthcare providers should evaluate each case individually to determine the best course of action.

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 help 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 text.

Postmarketing Experience

Postmarketing experience has identified several adverse reactions associated with the use of the product. Voluntary reports and data from surveillance programs have documented allergic reactions, which include hives, facial swelling, asthma (wheezing), shock, skin reddening, rash, and blisters. Additionally, instances of stomach bleeding have been reported, particularly in patients with certain risk factors.

There is an increased risk of serious cardiovascular events, including heart attack, heart failure, and stroke, associated with the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Reports of gastrointestinal bleeding, renal impairment, and liver function abnormalities have also been noted in the postmarketing setting. Other adverse reactions reported include dizziness, headache, and gastrointestinal discomfort.

Patient Counseling

Patients should be advised to keep this medication out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion. In the event of an overdose, it is crucial to seek medical assistance immediately or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

Healthcare providers should inform patients not to use this medication if they have a history of allergic reactions to any other pain reliever or fever reducer. Additionally, patients should be cautioned against using this product right before or after heart surgery.

Patients must be instructed 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 persistent stomach pain. They should also seek medical advice if they notice symptoms indicative of heart problems or stroke, such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, weakness on one side of the body, slurred speech, leg swelling, or if their pain worsens or lasts more than 10 days.

If a patient's fever worsens or persists for more than three days, or if they observe redness or swelling in the painful area or any new symptoms, they should discontinue use and contact a healthcare professional.

When using this product, patients should be advised to take it with food or milk if they experience stomach upset. It is also important for patients to consult a doctor before use if the warning regarding stomach bleeding applies to them, if they have experienced serious side effects from pain relievers or fever reducers, or if they have a history of stomach issues such as heartburn. Patients with high blood pressure, heart disease, liver cirrhosis, kidney disease, asthma, or a history of stroke, as well as those taking diuretics, should also seek medical advice prior to use.

Finally, patients should be encouraged to ask a doctor or pharmacist before using this medication if they are under medical care for any serious condition, are taking aspirin for heart attack or stroke (as ibuprofen may reduce the effectiveness of aspirin), or are using any other medications.

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in various package configurations, with specific NDC numbers available for identification. It is essential to store the product at a controlled temperature between 20°-25°C (68°-77°F). Care should be taken to avoid exposure to excessive heat, specifically temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F). Proper storage conditions are crucial to maintain the integrity and efficacy of the product.

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 crucial to avoid 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.

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)