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Ibuprofen is one of the most popular substances administered in the case of pain of various origins and fever. In addition, the drug has an anti-inflammatory effect, which gives it an advantage over paracetamol. Ibuprofen is a safe and well-tolerated drug. However, it is worth knowing the rules of safe dosing to avoid possible consequences of exceeding the dose.
Ibuprofen belongs to the group of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. It started to be used in the 60s. Today it is very popular, and there are many preparations containing ibuprofen on the Polish market. Ibuprofen has both anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic properties. In addition, it inhibits platelet aggregation and reduces its clotting.
Ibuprofen belongs to the group of NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). This drug allows for the selective and reversible silencing of the activity of the so-called enzymes. COX-1 and COX-2 cyclooxygenases (these enzymes are responsible for the synthesis of factors causing inflammation and pain sensation), thus reducing the development of inflammation.
It is used for mild and moderate pain, such as headache, toothache, muscle pain, bone and joint pain, pain resulting from various types of injuries and neuralgia. It is also worth noting that ibuprofen reduces uterine contractions, so it will help with painful menstruation. It will also relieve fever and the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
Ibuprofen has the highest concentration about 1-2 hours after oral administration. It is cleared from the body within 24 hours.
Ibuprofen, like any drug, may have adverse effects when we exceed the safe daily dose. To avoid this, it is recommended that the lowest effective dose be taken for as short a time as possible until symptoms are relieved.
Adults and children over 12 years of age can take 200 to 400 mg of ibuprofen every 6 hours. However, the maximum daily amount is 1200 mg of ibuprofen. If the patient’s condition is serious, the doctor may decide to increase the daily dose to 2400 mg.
Children under 12 years of age should be administered about 20-30 mg of ibuprofen per kg of body weight, divided into 2-3 doses. Correct calculation of the daily dose is very important to avoid the risk of overdosing. Therefore, before giving a child a drug, it is necessary to read the leaflet and check which active substances it contains and in what concentrations.
Medicines containing ibuprofen can be used from the third month of life of a child.
Any doubts related to the use of Ibuprofen should be consulted with a doctor. You can make an appointment conveniently and quickly using the halodoctor.pl portal.
Ibuprofen – side effects
When using ibuprofen, be careful not to exceed a safe daily dose. However, compared to other NSAIDs, it is relatively well tolerated and the negative side effects are mild.
Side effects include:
- gastrointestinal disorders (abdominal pain, indigestion, heartburn, nausea, discomfort),
- diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, gastritis appear less frequently,
- dizziness,
- insomnia,
- nervousness,
- fatigue,
- Tinnitus,
- blurred vision,
- disorders of the kidneys and urinary tract,
- liver disorders,
- changes in the blood
- rashes, hives, erythema multiforme
- toxic efflux necrosis.
Contraindication to the use of ibuprofen is:
- gastric ulcer and / or duodenal ulcer,
- gastrointestinal perforation or bleeding,
- severe liver, kidney and heart failure,
- allergy after taking acetylsalicylic acid or NSAIDs,
- taking preparations that inhibit platelet aggregation based on acetylsalicylic acid.
Effect of ibuprofen on pregnancy and lactation
The conducted studies do not show any adverse effects on the fetus. Nevertheless, it is recommended to use drugs containing ibuprofen in women in the 1st and 2nd trimester of pregnancy and only when necessary. The drug is not prescribed in the 3rd trimester, as ibuprofen inhibits uterine contractions. In addition, Botalla’s ductus arteriosus may close prematurely, which may lead to the development of pulmonary hypertension in the newborn.
Ibuprofen may impair female fertility, so it should be avoided by women planning pregnancy and those who have difficulties conceiving a child. Although ibuprofen is excreted in breast milk, no harmful effects on the breastfed infants have been found.
Pregnant women should take special care of their health and safety. A medical subscription prepared especially for pregnant women may be helpful.
Ibuprofen and acetaminophen are the most popular painkillers. Medicines containing both substances are now available in pharmacies. Thanks to this, these preparations have a stronger analgesic and antipyretic effect, and the presence of ibuprofen adds an anti-inflammatory effect that paracetamol does not have.
Remember, however, that the combination of these two substances increases the risk of negative side effects. When using them, we must take into account, in particular, damage to the kidneys. That is why we should use a combination of these two substances in exceptional situations and only until the bothersome symptoms disappear.
Before use, read the leaflet, which contains indications, contraindications, data on side effects and dosage as well as information on the use of the medicinal product, or consult your doctor or pharmacist, as each drug used improperly is a threat to your life or health. Do you need a medical consultation or an e-prescription? Go to halodoctor.pl, where you will get online help – quickly, safely and without leaving your home.