Ibuprofen
Purpose of Medication and Method of Action
Ibuprofen is indicated for the treatment of both acute and chronic inflammatory conditions. Among these are: bursitis, muscle strains, osteo-and rheumatoid arthritis. It is a member of a class of drugs called non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDS). Their mechanism of action is to interfere with the inflammatory cascade which must occur before swelling and pain results.
Side Effects
The most common side effects are: headache and nausea. Approximately 20% of individuals taking this class of drugs will develop gastrointestinal distress which can be severe enough to produce bleeding. For that reason this medication this drug MUST BE TAKEN WITH MILK OR AFTER MEALS! If you notice any blood in your stools, stop the medication and call your physician immediately!! On occasion this class of drugs will produce swelling of the legs and ankles. Should this occur stop the drug and call you physician.
Drug Interactions
None reported
Cautions and Contraindications
None reported
Usual Dose
200-800 mg 3-4 times a day.
Patient Medication Information
These information sheets do not list all known side effects of the medications, only the most common side effects. For a complete list of side effects please contact your local pharmacy or the actual drug manufacturing company.