Ibuprofen Painkiller

What is Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen is a commonly used painkiller which comes from a group of drugs called NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Another drug commonly found in this group is aspirin. Ibuprofen can be used to ease mild to moderate pain, for example if you have any dental pain, back pain, headaches or period pains. Ibuprofen can also help control a high temperature if you are suffering with colds or flu. Ibuprofen is also good for easing pain, inflammation and swelling caused by conditions affecting the joints and muscles like arthritis. Ibuprofen can be taken by adults and children over 3 months.

There are many types of ibuprofen available including tablets, capsules, liquids and gels or creams that can be applied to the skin if you have any muscular strains or sports injury. Ibuprofen can be purchased without a prescription.

Side effects

Common side effects of ibuprofen are:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Constipation or diarrhoea
• Abdominal pain.

Severe side effects are not very common but could include the following:

• Stomach ulcers
• Worsening of conditions like Crohn’s
• Skin problems
• Tingling hands and feet
• Bloating
• Raised blood pressure
• Black stools and blood in vomit – indicating bleeding within the stomach.

If you become unwell after taking Ibuprofen then you should contact your doctor.

How to use

Ibuprofen should be taken as directed on the label or leaflet or as instructed by your doctor. Generally, adults can take 1-2 200mg tablets every 4-6 hours up to three times a day as necessary. It is best taken with food or on a full stomach and a drink of milk to help protect your stomach.

Precautions

Pregnant women should not take ibuprofen unless it has been recommended by a doctor.

It is not recommended to take ibuprofen if:

• You have a stomach ulcer or a history of stomach ulcers.
• You have severe liver disease
• You have severe heart failure
• You have suffered a allergic reaction to aspirin or other NSAIDs
• You are taking a low dose aspirin for the treatment of cardiovascular disease.

You should use ibuprofen with caution if:

• You are aged over 65
• You are breastfeeding
• You have asthma
• You suffer with kidney or liver problems
• You have lupus
• You have Crohn’s disease
• You have high blood pressure
• You have any problems with your heart or have had a stroke.