Ibuprofen: Price, Dosage & Where to Buy

Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug used to relieve the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, to treat mild to moderate pain, and to manage primary dysmenorrhea. It is available over the counter in the United Kingdom, and has been available as a generic medicine since 15 October 1986.

Ibuprofen is indicated for relief of the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. It is also indicated for relief of mild to moderate pain. Additionally, ibuprofen is indicated for the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea.

The medicine addresses inflammation, pain, and associated symptoms in these conditions. Controlled clinical trials to establish safety and effectiveness in children have not been conducted.

The label lists 200 mg capsules, 200 mg liquid-filled capsules, 800 mg/200 mL and 800 mg/8 mL injections, 100 mg/100 mL liquid, 10 mg/mL solution, 50 mg/1.25 mL, 100 mg/10 mL, 100 mg/5 mL, and 200 mg/10 mL suspensions, 200 mg, 300 mg, 400 mg, 600 mg, and 800 mg tablets, 100 mg chewable tablets, and 100 mg, 200 mg, and 256 mg coated tablets. For rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, the suggested dosage is 1200 mg to 3200 mg daily, given as 400 mg, 600 mg, or 800 mg three or four times daily. The maximum total daily dose is 3200 mg.

For mild to moderate pain, the usual dose is 400 mg every 4 to 6 hours as necessary. For dysmenorrhea, the usual dose is 400 mg every 4 hours as necessary, beginning with the earliest onset of pain.

Ibuprofen belongs to a class of medicines known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. These medicines work by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, naturally occurring substances in the body that play a role in inflammation, pain, and fever. By reducing prostaglandin synthesis, ibuprofen decreases inflammation and alleviates pain.

This mechanism makes it effective for conditions involving inflammation and discomfort, such as arthritis and musculoskeletal pain. The drug's effect on prostaglandins also accounts for some of its side effects and contraindications, particularly those involving the gastrointestinal system and cardiovascular system.

Use of ibuprofen can cause premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus and fetal renal dysfunction leading to oligohydramnios and, in some cases, neonatal renal impairment. Limit dose and duration between about 20 and 30 weeks of gestation, and avoid use at about 30 weeks of gestation and later in pregnancy. Use at about 30 weeks or later may cause premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus.

Use at about 20 weeks or later has been associated with fetal renal dysfunction leading to oligohydramnios and neonatal renal impairment. There are no adequate, well-controlled studies in pregnant women.

Ibuprofen should be used in pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Discuss the use of this medicine during pregnancy with a doctor or pharmacist.

If a dose is missed, it may be taken as soon as remembered unless it is nearly time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

For chronic conditions such as arthritis, consistent dosing helps maintain therapeutic benefit, so establishing a routine can be helpful. For pain relief taken on an as-needed basis, the timing is less critical. Speak to a pharmacist if there are questions about missed doses or dosing schedules.

The label directs storage at 20° to 25°C, with excursions permitted to 15° to 30°C. Excessive heat above 40°C should be avoided to maintain quality.

Keep the medicine in its original packaging and out of the reach of children. Store in a dry place away from moisture and direct light as directed on the label.