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Ibuprofen

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Active ingredient
Ibuprofen 200 mg
Other brand names
Drug class
Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug
Dosage form
Tablet
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
Pregnancy
See Pregnancy Use Section
Lactation
See Lactation Use Section
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2018
Label revision date
March 18, 2024
Drug Information (PDF)
Prescribing information, PDF file
Active ingredient
Ibuprofen 200 mg
Other brand names
Drug class
Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug
Dosage form
Tablet
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
CSA schedule
Not a scheduled drug
Pregnancy
See Pregnancy Use Section
Lactation
See Lactation Use Section
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2018
Label revision date
March 18, 2024
Manufacturer
WALGREENS
Registration number
ANDA091237
NDC root
0363-9611
Drug Information (PDF)
Prescribing information, PDF file
Packaging Info (5 NDCs)
Packaging & NDC Codes (5)

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Drug Overview

Ibuprofen is a medication commonly used to temporarily relieve minor aches and pains, such as headaches, muscular aches, toothaches, backaches, and menstrual cramps. It is also effective for alleviating pain associated with arthritis and the common cold. In addition to pain relief, ibuprofen helps to temporarily reduce fever, making it a versatile option for managing discomfort and feverish symptoms.

Uses

You can use this medication to temporarily relieve minor aches and pains caused by various conditions, including headaches, muscular aches, arthritis pain, toothaches, backaches, the common cold, and menstrual cramps. Additionally, it can help reduce fever for a short period.

This medication is designed to provide you with quick relief from discomfort, making it easier to go about your daily activities. Always remember to follow the recommended guidelines for use to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Dosage and Administration

If you are an adult or a child aged 12 years and older, you can take 1 tablet every 4 to 6 hours as needed while you have symptoms. If you find that 1 tablet isn’t enough to relieve your pain or fever, you may take 2 tablets instead. However, it’s important not to exceed 6 tablets in a 24-hour period unless your doctor advises you to do so.

For children under 12 years old, it’s best to consult a doctor before giving them this medication. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions to ensure safe and effective use.

What to Avoid

You should avoid using this medication if you have ever had an allergic reaction to ibuprofen or any other pain reliever or fever reducer. Additionally, it is important not to use this medication right before or after heart surgery, as it may pose risks in these situations. Always consult with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or questions about your health and medication use.

Side Effects

Ibuprofen can cause serious allergic reactions, particularly in individuals who are allergic to aspirin. Symptoms of such reactions may include hives, facial swelling, asthma (wheezing), shock, skin reddening, rash, and blisters. Additionally, this medication carries a risk of severe stomach bleeding, especially for those over 60, individuals with a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding, and those taking blood thinners or other NSAIDs. The risk of heart attack and stroke is also increased with NSAID use, particularly if taken in higher doses or for extended periods.

You should stop using ibuprofen and consult a doctor if you experience signs of stomach bleeding, such as feeling faint, vomiting blood, or having black stools. Seek medical attention if you notice symptoms of heart problems or stroke, like chest pain or weakness on one side of the body. It's important to talk to your doctor before using ibuprofen if you have a history of stomach issues, high blood pressure, heart disease, or if you are taking other medications.

Warnings and Precautions

You should be aware that ibuprofen can cause serious allergic reactions, especially if you are allergic to aspirin. Signs of an allergic reaction include hives, facial swelling, wheezing, shock, skin reddening, rash, or blisters. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop using ibuprofen immediately and seek emergency medical help.

This medication can also lead to severe stomach bleeding, particularly if you are over 60, have a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding, take blood-thinning medications, consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily, or use it for longer than recommended. Additionally, using ibuprofen may increase your risk of heart attack and stroke, especially if taken in higher doses or for extended periods.

You should stop using ibuprofen and consult your doctor if you notice any signs of stomach bleeding, such as feeling faint, vomiting blood, or having black stools. Also, seek medical advice if you experience chest pain, difficulty breathing, weakness on one side of your body, slurred speech, or swelling in your legs. If your pain worsens or lasts more than 10 days, or if your fever persists for more than 3 days, it's important to contact your healthcare provider.

Overdose

If you suspect an overdose, it's important to stay calm and take immediate action. While there is no specific information available about the signs of overdose for this medication, general symptoms can include unusual drowsiness, confusion, or difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these signs, or if you are unsure, seek medical help right away.

In case of an overdose, contact your local emergency services or go to the nearest hospital. It's always better to be safe and get checked by a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about your health. Remember, timely intervention can make a significant difference.

Pregnancy Use

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before using any medication, including ibuprofen. This is particularly crucial if you are 20 weeks pregnant or later, as using ibuprofen during this time can lead to potential issues for your unborn child or complications during delivery. Always seek guidance from your doctor to ensure the safety of both you and your baby.

Lactation Use

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before using any medication, including ibuprofen. This is particularly crucial if you are 20 weeks pregnant or later, as using ibuprofen during this time can potentially lead to issues for your unborn child or complications during delivery. Always prioritize your health and the health of your baby by seeking guidance from your doctor.

Pediatric Use

If your child is under 12 years old, it's important to consult a doctor before using this medication. For those aged 12 and older, the recommended dosage is 1 tablet every 4 to 6 hours as needed for symptoms. If one tablet isn't enough to relieve pain or fever, you can give 2 tablets. However, make sure not to exceed 6 tablets in a 24-hour period unless a doctor advises otherwise. Always prioritize safety and seek professional guidance when it comes to treating your child's health.

Geriatric Use

As you age, particularly if you are 60 or older, it's important to be aware that the risk of severe stomach bleeding increases. This is especially relevant if you are taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which are commonly used for pain relief. Because of this heightened risk, special precautions should be taken when using these medications.

If you or a loved one is an older adult, it's essential to discuss any NSAID use with a healthcare provider. They can help determine the safest options and monitor for potential side effects, ensuring that you receive effective pain management while minimizing risks.

Renal Impairment

If you have kidney problems, it's important to know that there are no specific guidelines or dosage adjustments mentioned for your condition in the available information. This means that the usual recommendations for monitoring or safety considerations related to renal impairment (kidney issues) are not provided.

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure that any medications you take are safe and appropriate for your kidney health. They can help you understand how your condition may affect your treatment plan.

Hepatic Impairment

If you have liver problems, it's important to know that there are no specific guidelines or dosage adjustments mentioned for your condition in the available information. This means that the standard recommendations apply, but you should always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice. They can help determine the best approach for your treatment and monitor your liver function as needed.

Make sure to keep your doctor informed about your liver health, as they may want to conduct regular tests to ensure your liver is functioning well while you are on medication. Your safety and well-being are the top priority, so don’t hesitate to ask questions or express any concerns you may have.

Drug Interactions

It's important to be aware that taking ibuprofen can reduce the effectiveness of aspirin, especially if you're using aspirin to prevent heart attacks or strokes. This means that if you are prescribed aspirin for these serious health issues, you should discuss any use of ibuprofen with your healthcare provider.

Always talk to your doctor or pharmacist about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs like ibuprofen. This way, you can ensure that your treatments work effectively and safely together.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the safety and effectiveness of your product, store it at a temperature between 20-25°C (68-77°F). It's important to keep the container tightly closed and protect it from light to maintain its quality. After opening, please discard any unused portion to prevent contamination.

Always keep the product out of reach of children, and remember that freezing the product is not recommended, as it can affect its performance. Following these guidelines will help you use the product safely and effectively.

Additional Information

You should take this medication orally. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before using it. Specifically, avoid using ibuprofen after 20 weeks of pregnancy unless your doctor has specifically instructed you to do so, as it may pose risks to your unborn child or lead to complications during delivery.

FAQ

What is ibuprofen used for?

Ibuprofen is used to temporarily relieve minor aches and pains from headaches, muscular aches, arthritis, toothaches, backaches, the common cold, and menstrual cramps. It also temporarily reduces fever.

What should I do if I experience signs of stomach bleeding?

Stop using ibuprofen and seek medical help if you feel faint, vomit blood, have bloody or black stools, or have stomach pain that does not improve.

What are the dosage instructions for adults and children 12 years and older?

Take 1 tablet every 4 to 6 hours while symptoms persist. If pain or fever does not respond to 1 tablet, you may take 2 tablets, but do not exceed 6 tablets in 24 hours unless directed by a doctor.

Are there any contraindications for using ibuprofen?

Do not use ibuprofen if you have ever had an allergic reaction to it or any other pain reliever/fever reducer, or if you are using it right before or after heart surgery.

What should I do if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, ask a health professional before using ibuprofen. It is especially important not to use it at 20 weeks or later in pregnancy unless directed by a doctor.

What are the allergy alerts associated with ibuprofen?

Ibuprofen may cause a severe allergic reaction, especially in those allergic to aspirin. Symptoms can include hives, facial swelling, asthma, shock, skin reddening, rash, and blisters.

What precautions should elderly patients take when using ibuprofen?

Elderly patients should take special precautions due to an increased risk of stomach bleeding and other side effects associated with NSAIDs.

How should ibuprofen be stored?

Store ibuprofen at 20-25°C (68-77°F), keep out of reach of children, protect from light, and keep the container tightly closed. Do not freeze.

Packaging Info

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Ibuprofen. Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Ibuprofen.
Details

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)

Description

The SPL code 34089-3 is associated with a pharmaceutical product. However, specific details regarding its molecular weight, chemical formula, dosage form, and appearance are not provided in the available information. Further data would be required to construct a comprehensive description of this product.

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 is associated with several significant warnings and precautions that healthcare professionals must consider to ensure patient safety.

Allergy Alert Ibuprofen may induce severe allergic reactions, particularly in individuals with a known allergy to aspirin. Symptoms indicative 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.

Stomach Bleeding Warning As a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), ibuprofen carries a risk of severe stomach bleeding. The likelihood of this adverse effect is heightened in patients who meet any of the following criteria:

  • 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, whether prescription or over-the-counter (e.g., aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen)

  • Consume three or more alcoholic beverages daily while using this product

  • Exceed the recommended dosage or duration of use

Heart Attack and Stroke Warning 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 particularly pronounced in patients who exceed the recommended dosage or duration of treatment.

Monitoring and Consultation Healthcare professionals should advise patients to discontinue ibuprofen and consult a physician if they experience any of the following symptoms, which may indicate stomach bleeding:

  • Feeling faint

  • Vomiting blood

  • Presence of bloody or black stools

  • Persistent stomach pain that does not improve

Additionally, patients should seek medical attention if they exhibit symptoms suggestive of heart problems or stroke, including:

  • Chest pain

  • Difficulty breathing

  • Weakness on one side of the body

  • Slurred speech

  • Swelling in the legs

Patients should also be instructed to stop use and consult a healthcare provider if:

  • Pain worsens or persists beyond 10 days

  • Fever worsens or lasts more than 3 days

  • Redness or swelling occurs in the affected area

  • Any new symptoms develop

In summary, the potential for serious adverse effects necessitates careful monitoring and patient education regarding the 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 aged 60 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 use other NSAIDs concurrently.

Additionally, ibuprofen is associated with an increased risk of heart attack, heart failure, and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk is particularly pronounced when the medication is used 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

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.

Packaging configurations for Ibuprofen.
Details

Pediatric Use

Pediatric patients under 12 years of age should consult a healthcare professional before use. For adolescents and children 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 when using this medication. Therefore, special precautions should be implemented for this population.

Healthcare providers are advised to closely monitor geriatric patients for signs of gastrointestinal bleeding and other potential side effects associated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It is essential to consider these risks when prescribing this medication to elderly patients, and appropriate dose modifications may be necessary to ensure their 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 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 while breastfeeding. It is particularly important to avoid the use of ibuprofen at 20 weeks of pregnancy or later 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 individuals.

Renal Impairment

There is no specific information available 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 an overdose. Symptoms 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 effectively.

Documentation of the incident, including the substance involved, the amount taken, and the time of ingestion, is crucial for appropriate treatment 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 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 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 patients aged 60 or older, those with a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding problems, individuals taking blood-thinning (anticoagulant) or steroid medications, users of other NSAIDs, those consuming three or more alcoholic drinks daily, or patients exceeding the recommended dosage. Furthermore, there is 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 recommendations.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients to keep this medication out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion. In the event of an overdose, patients should be instructed to 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 ibuprofen or any other pain reliever or fever reducer. Additionally, it should not be used right before or after heart surgery.

Healthcare providers should counsel patients 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. Patients should also be advised to seek medical attention 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 swelling in the legs.

Patients should be instructed to discontinue use and consult a doctor if their pain worsens or persists for 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 consult a doctor before use if they have a history of problems or serious side effects from pain relievers or fever reducers, or if the stomach bleeding warning applies to them.

Patients with a history of stomach problems, such as heartburn, high blood pressure, heart disease, liver cirrhosis, kidney disease, asthma, or a history of stroke should also be encouraged to seek medical advice before using this medication. Furthermore, patients taking diuretics or aspirin for heart attack or stroke should consult a doctor or pharmacist, as ibuprofen may diminish the benefits of aspirin.

Lastly, patients under a doctor's care for any serious condition or those taking any other medications should be advised to discuss their use of this product with their healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in a container that must be kept tightly closed to maintain its integrity. It should be stored at a temperature range of 20-25°C (68-77°F) and protected from light. Freezing is not permitted, and the product should be discarded after opening. Additionally, it is essential to keep the product out of reach of children to ensure safety.

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 after 20 weeks of pregnancy unless specifically directed by a physician, as it may pose risks to the unborn child or lead to complications during delivery. No further information is available regarding laboratory tests, abuse potential, or postmarketing experiences.

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)

Data Generation & Sources

This page was automatically generated and is maintained by the AllDrugs AI Data-Science Team. It was built from the FDA Structured Product Label (DailyMed) for Ibuprofen, retrieved by a validated AI data-extraction workflow.

All FDA-listed dosage forms and strengths are shown in the Packaging & NDC Codes section above. Regulatory status appears in the Summary Information panel above and was verified in the FDA National Drug Code directory and the NSDE NDC Directory daily file.

Note: an automated daemon monitors NSDE checksums; when the record for this NDC changes, the new file is pulled instantly and this page is refreshed.

No human clinician has reviewed this version.

Learn more in our Editorial Policy

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Primary FDA sources:

Orange Book data shown on this page are limited to Regulatory Status (Rx), Established Pharmacologic Class (EPC), and Mechanism of Action (MoA).

Regulatory data notice: Information on this page is reproduced verbatim from FDA public databases (NSDE, Orange Book, Purple Book, DailyMed SPL). NDA/ANDA drugs are FDA-approved, BLA biologics are FDA-licensed. Inclusion alone does not guarantee current market availability or imply FDA endorsement.

Medical disclaimer: This AI-generated content is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional for diagnosis or treatment decisions.