Ibuprofen: Dose, Frequency, Indications, Interactions & more

Dosage and Dosage

  • Adults: Typically, the initial dose is 200-400 mg every 4 to 6 hours, as needed, for mild to moderate pain or fever. The maximum dose should not exceed 1200 mg per day.
  • Children: The dosage is based on weight and age. It’s typically given at a dose of 5-10 mg/kg every 6-8 hours, with a maximum dose of 40 mg/kg per day.

Frequency

  • The frequency of administration depends on the severity of pain or fever and individual response to the medication. It is usually administered every 4 to 6 hours for adults, not exceeding the maximum daily dose.

Route of Administration (ROA)

  • Ibuprofen is commonly administered orally in the form of tablets, capsules, or oral suspension. It can also be available as a topical gel for localized pain relief.

Mechanism of Action (MOA)

  • Ibuprofen belongs to the class of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It works by inhibiting the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX), thereby reducing the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals in the body that cause inflammation, pain, and fever.

Pharmacokinetics (PK)

  • Ibuprofen is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. Its peak plasma concentration is reached within 1 to 2 hours.
  • It undergoes hepatic metabolism and is primarily eliminated in the urine, with a half-life of approximately 2 to 4 hours.

Pharmacodynamics (PD)

  • Ibuprofen exerts its analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic effects by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis, primarily through COX inhibition.

Pathophysiology

  • Ibuprofen alleviates pain, reduces inflammation, and lowers fever by interfering with the body’s inflammatory response and prostaglandin synthesis.

Indications

  • Pain relief: Headaches, menstrual cramps, dental pain, musculoskeletal pain, etc.
  • Fever reduction: Associated with viral or bacterial infections.

Contraindications

  • Known hypersensitivity to ibuprofen or other NSAIDs.
  • Active peptic ulcer disease or gastrointestinal bleeding.
  • Severe renal impairment.
  • History of asthma, urticaria, or allergic reactions to aspirin or other NSAIDs.

Drug Interactions

  • Ibuprofen may interact with various medications, including anticoagulants, corticosteroids, ACE inhibitors, diuretics, lithium, methotrexate, and others. It can increase the risk of bleeding, gastrointestinal ulcers, and kidney toxicity when used concomitantly with certain drugs.

Precautions

  • Patients with a history of gastrointestinal disorders, renal impairment, or cardiovascular disease should use ibuprofen with caution.
  • Long-term or high-dose use of ibuprofen may increase the risk of adverse effects, including gastrointestinal bleeding, renal impairment, and cardiovascular events.
  • Avoid alcohol consumption while taking ibuprofen, as it may increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.

These points provide a comprehensive overview of the dosage, administration, mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, pathophysiology, indications, contraindications, drug interactions, and precautions associated with ibuprofen use. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized medical advice and appropriate use of ibuprofen.

Purpose
Relieves pain: Headaches, menstrual cramps, dental pain, musculoskeletal pain, etc.
Reduces fever associated with viral or bacterial infections.
Dosage and Usage
Adults: Initial dose of 200-400 mg every 4 to 6 hours, not exceeding 1200 mg per day.
Children: Dosage based on weight and age, typically 5-10 mg/kg every 6-8 hours, up to 40 mg/kg per day.
Other Uses
Some people may use ibuprofen for its anti-inflammatory properties in conditions like arthritis or minor injuries.
Precautions
Use with caution in patients with gastrointestinal disorders, renal impairment, or cardiovascular disease.
Long-term or high-dose use may increase the risk of adverse effects, such as gastrointestinal bleeding, renal impairment, and cardiovascular events.
Avoid alcohol consumption while taking ibuprofen to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.
Diet
There are no specific dietary restrictions while taking ibuprofen.
Missed Dose
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it is close to the next scheduled dose. Do not double dose.
Side Effects
Common side effects include nausea, stomach pain, heartburn, dizziness, and headache. Less common but severe side effects may include gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney problems, and allergic reactions.
Storage and Disposal
Store ibuprofen at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of the reach of children and pets.
Dispose of unused or expired medication properly according to local regulations or guidelines.
Overdose or Emergency
In case of overdose or emergency, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, dizziness, drowsiness, and difficulty breathing.

This table summarizes key information about ibuprofen, including its purpose, dosage, usage, other uses, precautions, dietary considerations, missed dose instructions, possible side effects, storage and disposal guidelines, and actions to take in case of an overdose or emergency situation. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized medical advice and appropriate use of ibuprofen.