What it is used for
- Pain such as headache, dental pain, period pain, muscle and joint pain, and back pain
- Inflammation and swelling from sprains, strains and arthritis
- Fever
- Discomfort from colds and flu
How it works
Ibuprofen blocks enzymes (COX-1 and COX-2) that the body uses to make prostaglandins, chemicals that drive pain, swelling and fever. Reducing them eases pain, lowers inflammation and brings down temperature.
How it is taken
Available as tablets, capsules, caplets, oral liquid or syrup (often for children), granules, and as gels or creams applied to the skin. Some forms are taken by mouth and others rubbed on the affected area. Take or apply it exactly as your doctor, pharmacist or the label directs. Oral ibuprofen is usually taken with or after food to reduce stomach upset.
No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.
Common side effects
- Indigestion, heartburn or stomach discomfort
- Nausea
- Headache or dizziness
- Mild skin reactions with topical forms
Serious effects — get help
- Stomach or gut bleeding (black or tarry stools, vomiting blood or material like coffee grounds, severe stomach pain)
- Signs of a serious allergic reaction or asthma attack (wheezing, swelling, difficulty breathing)
- Chest pain, weakness on one side, or sudden severe headache (possible heart or stroke warning signs)
- Reduced urination or swelling (possible kidney problems)
- Severe blistering skin reactions
If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.
Interactions to watch
- Other NSAIDs or aspirin (added stomach-bleeding risk)
- Blood thinners such as warfarin or apixaban
- Some blood pressure medicines, diuretics and certain heart drugs
- Corticosteroids and some antidepressants (SSRIs) raise bleeding risk
- Lithium and methotrexate
- Alcohol (more stomach irritation)
Who should take care
- Generally avoided in late pregnancy and used cautiously, if at all, earlier — always ask your clinician
- Tell your doctor if you have or had stomach ulcers, heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney or liver problems, or asthma
- Use the lowest effective amount for the shortest time
- Older adults are more sensitive to side effects
- Seek urgent care for signs of gut bleeding or allergic reaction