Ibuprofen

Description

The product is identified by the SPL Code 34089-3. No additional specific description details are provided in the available data.

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 over are advised to take 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 dosage of 2 capsules may be administered. It is imperative that the total daily dosage does not exceed 6 capsules 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 other pain reliever or fever reducer. Additionally, the product should not be administered immediately before or after heart surgery due to potential complications associated with surgical recovery.

Warnings and Precautions

Ibuprofen may cause severe allergic reactions, particularly in individuals with a known allergy to aspirin. Symptoms of such reactions 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 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 taking anticoagulants or steroid medications, consume three or more alcoholic beverages daily while using this product, or exceed the recommended dosage or duration of use.

Additionally, NSAIDs, excluding aspirin, are linked to 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 prolonged periods.

Healthcare professionals should advise patients to consult a physician prior to use if any of the following conditions apply: a history of stomach bleeding, adverse reactions to pain relievers or fever reducers, gastrointestinal issues such as heartburn, high blood pressure, heart disease, liver cirrhosis, kidney disease, asthma, a history of stroke, or if they are currently taking a diuretic. Furthermore, patients should seek guidance from a healthcare provider or pharmacist if they are under medical care for any serious condition, are using aspirin for cardiovascular protection, or are taking any other medications.

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

Patients should discontinue use and contact their healthcare provider if they experience any signs of stomach bleeding, including feeling faint, vomiting blood, having bloody or black stools, or experiencing persistent stomach pain. They should also seek medical advice if they exhibit symptoms indicative of heart problems or stroke, such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, unilateral weakness, slurred speech, or leg swelling. Additionally, if pain worsens or persists beyond 10 days, fever intensifies or lasts more than 3 days, redness or swelling occurs in the affected area, or any new symptoms arise, patients should consult their physician.

Side Effects

Patients using ibuprofen should be aware of potential adverse reactions, which can range from serious to common.

Severe allergic reactions may occur, particularly in individuals with a known allergy to aspirin. Symptoms of such reactions can 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 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 should discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if they experience 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, if pain worsens or persists beyond 10 days, fever intensifies or lasts more than 3 days, redness or swelling occurs in the painful area, or any new symptoms arise, patients should seek medical advice.

Before using ibuprofen, patients should consult a healthcare provider if they have a history of stomach problems, such as heartburn, or if they have high blood pressure, heart disease, liver cirrhosis, kidney disease, asthma, or a history of stroke. It is also advisable to seek medical guidance if taking diuretics or if under a doctor's care for any serious condition. Patients taking aspirin for heart attack or stroke should be aware that ibuprofen may diminish the cardioprotective effects of aspirin.

Drug Interactions

Ibuprofen may interact with several classes of medications, leading to significant clinical effects that warrant careful consideration.

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) The concomitant use of ibuprofen with other NSAIDs, including aspirin and naproxen, whether prescription or nonprescription, is associated with an increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid the simultaneous use of multiple NSAIDs to minimize this risk.

Anticoagulants and Corticosteroids The use of ibuprofen in conjunction with anticoagulants or steroid medications may elevate the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. Clinicians should monitor patients closely for signs of bleeding and consider dosage adjustments or alternative therapies as necessary.

Diuretics Patients who are on diuretic therapy should seek medical advice prior to initiating ibuprofen. The interaction may necessitate careful monitoring of renal function and fluid status, as ibuprofen can potentially affect the efficacy of diuretics.

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 capsule every 4 to 6 hours as needed for symptom relief. If pain or fever does not adequately respond to 1 capsule, 2 capsules may be administered. It is important not to exceed 6 capsules within a 24-hour period unless directed by a healthcare provider.

Geriatric Use

Elderly patients, particularly those aged 60 years and older, may have an increased risk of severe stomach bleeding. It is essential for healthcare providers to exercise caution when prescribing medications that may exacerbate this risk in this population.

Monitoring for gastrointestinal adverse effects is recommended, and dose adjustments should be considered based on the individual patient's health status and concurrent medications. Careful assessment of the benefits and risks is crucial when treating geriatric patients to ensure their safety and well-being.

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 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 consider the potential benefits and risks when 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 pose risks to the unborn child or lead to complications during delivery. 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 benefits against the risks when considering this medication for 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 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 should consult a healthcare professional prior to use, particularly if they have 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 may be necessary 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 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 provided regarding nonclinical toxicology or animal pharmacology and toxicology.

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, severe stomach bleeding has been noted, particularly in individuals over 60 years of age, those with a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding problems, and those concurrently using blood thinners or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

There is an increased risk of heart attack, heart failure, and stroke associated with NSAID use, especially when utilized in higher doses or for extended durations. Reports of adverse reactions have also included gastrointestinal bleeding, renal impairment, hepatic impairment, and various cardiovascular events. Furthermore, the risk of serious cardiovascular events may be heightened in patients with pre-existing cardiovascular disease or risk factors.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients to keep this medication out of reach of children. In the event of an overdose, patients should seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately at 1-800-222-1222.

Patients must be informed not to use this medication if they have ever experienced an allergic reaction to any other pain reliever or fever reducer. Additionally, it should not be used right before or after heart surgery.

Patients should 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 stomach pain that does not improve. They should also seek medical advice if they exhibit symptoms of heart problems or stroke, such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, weakness on one side of the body, slurred speech, or leg swelling.

Healthcare providers should counsel patients to discontinue use and consult a doctor if their pain worsens or lasts more than 10 days, if their fever worsens or lasts more than 3 days, if there is redness or swelling in the painful area, or if any new symptoms arise.

When using this product, patients should be advised to take it with food or milk if they experience stomach upset. It is important for patients to ask a doctor before use if the stomach bleeding warning applies to them or if they have a history of stomach problems, such as heartburn.

Patients should also be encouraged to consult a doctor before use if they have high blood pressure, heart disease, liver cirrhosis, kidney disease, asthma, or a history of stroke. Those taking a diuretic or under a doctor's care for any serious condition should also seek medical advice prior to use. Furthermore, patients should be informed that if they are taking aspirin for heart attack or stroke, ibuprofen may diminish the benefits of aspirin, and they should consult a doctor or pharmacist before use if they are taking any other medications.

Storage and Handling

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