Pain relief & fever · NSAID (Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory)
Ibuprofen
Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) used for pain, inflammation, and fever comfort in many adults and children.
OTCPregnancy warningKidney warningLiver warningAlcohol interactionPaediatric useSenior precautionOverview & typical uses
Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) used for pain, inflammation, and fever comfort in many adults and children.
Primary uses
- Temporary relief of mild to moderate pain (headache, muscle ache, joint pain, menstrual cramps)
- Comfort during fever
- Short-term relief of inflammatory joint or soft-tissue pain
How it works
Blocks cyclo-oxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2) enzymes, reducing prostaglandins that drive pain, fever, and inflammation.
Available forms & strengths
- Tablet — 200 mg, 400 mg, 600 mg (Oral)
- Oral suspension — 100 mg / 5 mL (Oral) · Paediatric
- Topical gel — 5%, 10% (Topical)
General precautions & contraindications
Do not use if
- Active stomach or duodenal ulcer
- Severe heart, kidney, or liver disease
- History of NSAID-triggered asthma, hives, or allergic reaction
- Third trimester of pregnancy
Pregnancy
Not recommended in pregnancy. Best avoided, especially after 20 weeks — can affect the developing baby's kidneys and heart. Paracetamol is usually preferred.
Breastfeeding
Generally considered safe. Very small amounts pass into breast milk; considered compatible with breastfeeding.
Kidney considerations
- Can reduce kidney blood flow — avoid in significant kidney disease.
- Stay hydrated. Stop and seek advice for reduced urine output.
Liver considerations
- Uncommon liver side effects. Discuss with a clinician if you have liver disease.
Paediatric use
Suitable from 3 months of age in the correct paediatric formulation. Avoid in dehydrated infants.
Older adults
Use with caution — greater risk of stomach ulcers, kidney injury, and heart events. Consider paracetamol first.
Common side effects
- Indigestion, heartburn, or mild stomach discomfort
- Nausea
- Mild dizziness or headache
Serious warnings — seek help if these appear
- Stomach ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding (black or bloody stools, vomiting blood)
- Kidney injury (reduced urine output, swelling of ankles)
- Serious allergic reactions (facial swelling, wheezing, hives)
- Increased risk of heart attack or stroke with prolonged high use
- Severe skin reactions (rare)
Drug interactions
Combining NSAIDs greatly increases stomach and kidney side effects.
Increases bleeding risk.
Ibuprofen can raise blood levels of these medicines to unsafe ranges.
Higher risk of stomach bleeding.
May reduce blood pressure control and stress the kidneys.
Food & alcohol precautions
Raises the risk of stomach irritation and bleeding.
Taking ibuprofen with food or milk can help reduce stomach upset.
Alcohol
- Alcohol combined with ibuprofen raises the risk of stomach bleeding.
Storage, missed dose & overdose
Storage
Store below 25 °C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children.
If a dose is missed
Ibuprofen is usually taken as needed. If used on a schedule, take a missed amount when remembered unless the next scheduled time is close.
Overdose
Overdose can cause stomach pain, drowsiness, low blood pressure, and kidney injury. Seek urgent medical care.
What to monitor
- Watch for black stools, unusual bruising, or reduced urine output.
- Review with a clinician if needed for more than 10 days in a row.
Frequently asked questions
Taking it with food or milk often reduces stomach discomfort.
Ibuprofen can trigger symptoms in some people with asthma — ask a clinician if unsure.
Oral ibuprofen typically starts working within 30 minutes; effects last 4 to 6 hours.
Medical references
- British National Formulary — Ibuprofen — BNF (NICE)
- FDA drug information — NSAIDs — U.S. Food & Drug Administration
- WHO Essential Medicines List — World Health Organization
Content last reviewed: 2025-01-01
Medical disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Please consult a licensed pharmacist or clinician for advice tailored to your personal circumstances.