Ibuprofen

What is Ibuprofen?

Ibuprofen is the most commonly used form of anti-inflammatory medications. These are sometimes called Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDS) or Non-narcotic Analgesics (included in this group are Aspirin and Acetaminophen).

It is due to its anti-inflammatory effects that Ibuprofen is often taken following injury, instead of aspirin or paracetamol. All acute injuries and most chronic injuries have an inflammatory reaction resulting in redness, pain, heat, swelling and a loss of function.

As with most medications, consult your Doctor before you start taking Ibuprofen. In some countries it may only be available from your Doctor.

Doses vary from 200mg which provide an analgesic effect, although your Doctor may prescribe you with a stronger dose, up to around 800mg which produce the anti-inflammatory result.

What are the Side-effects?

There are only a few, relatively low key side effects to proper Ibuprofen use:

• Heart Burn (Indigestion)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Stomach ache
• Blood in the stools
• Diarrhea

Who Should Not Take Ibuprofen?

There are a few groups of people who should not take Ibuprofen before speaking to their Doctor:

• People who have problems with their kidneys, liver, heart or stomach
• Asthmatics
• People taking any other form of anti-inflammatory