Ibuprofen
Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal analgesic, antipyretic and antinflammatory agent. It was the first propionic acid derivative to be used in most countries. Chemically Ibuprofen is (+/-)2-(4-Isobutylphenyl) propionic acid. It reduces inflammation, fever and relieves pain. Ibuprofen is equivalent to aspirin in its antinflammatory effects, but Ibuprofen is more effective analgesic than aspirin or acetaminophen. Ibuprofen is prepared chemically and marketed as racemic mixture of its two enantiomers. Ibuprofen is available in combination with codeine, acetaminophen ans pseudoephedrine. Ibuprofen is available for oral and topical administration.
Primary Characteristics
It is of Synthetic origin and belongs to Propionic Acid.
It belongs to Cyclo-oxygenase inhibitor pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action and also classified in NSAIDs pharmacological group. It is also classified under Analgesics and Anti-inflammatory Agents .
Molecular Weight: 206.3 · pKa: 4.4, 5.2 · Solubility in Water: < 1 in 10000 · Solubility in Alcohol: 1 in 1.5 · Non-proprietary name: Ibuprofen.

Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Ibuprofen has an oral bioavailability is 97% (±2%).
Distribution: Ibuprofen has a volume of distribution is 0.1 l/kg. plasma protein binding is 99%.
Elimination: it is metabolised via extensive by liver, plasma half-life is 2-4 hr, renal excretion is >90%. Also excreted in bile and feces.
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Indications
Ibuprofen is primarily indicated in conditions like Cystic fibrosis, Fever, Juvenile chronic arthritis, Migraine, Mild to moderate pain, Musculoskeletal pain, Nausea and vomiting (palliative care), Osteoarthritis, Pain, Post operative analgesia, Rheumatoid arthritis, Severe pain and tenderness in benign fibrocystic breast disease, Toothache.
Ibuprofen is also indicated for secondary conditions like Acute arthritis, Ankylosing spondylitis, Dysmenorrhoea, Inflammatory bowel disease.
Contraindications
Ibuprofen is contraindicated in conditions like Hypertension, Peptic ulcer, Bronchospasm, Renal failure, Hypersensitivity, GI bleeding.
Dosage
Ibuprofen's dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 5 % | 5 % | — | Cream | |
| 400 mg | 400 mg | Every 8h | PO | Maximum dose 1.2 g |
| 10 % | 10 % | — | Topical Gel | |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 7.5 mg/kg | 7.5 mg/kg | Every 8h | Oral | Maximum dose: 40 mg/kg |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| No data. | ||||
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Ibuprofen in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Thrombocytopenia , Elevated blood pressure.
Ibuprofen produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Vomiting, Peptic ulceration, Hematemesis, Severe gastric pain. Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Ibuprofen are Hypotension, Nausea, Vomiting, Cardiac arrhythmias, Coma, Seizures, Acidosis, Ataxia, Headache, Renal failure, Epigastric pain, Tinnitus , Tinnitus, Hyperkalemia, GI bleeding, Renal and Hepatic dysfunction.
Ibuprofen is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Angioedema, Aseptic maningitis, Blood dyscrasias, Blurred vision, Constipation , Depression, Diarrhea, Dizziness, Edema, Elevation of liver enzymes, Flatulence, Fluid retention, Gastritis, Headache, Hearing loss, Hypersensitivity reactions, Pruritus , Rashes , SomnolenceX, Tinnitus, Urticaria, Vision disturbances.
Warnings / Precautions
Interference in Pathology
Ibuprofen may interfere in the diagnosis of Imparting a pinkishred to the urine.
Available Brands
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Single Ingredient
Multi-Ingredient Combinations
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.2.1.3 — Non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- 2.2.5 — Antirheumatics, topical
Manufacturers
Manufacturers of Ibuprofen in Pakistan: