Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen relieves the pain of dysmenorrhea (menstrual cramps), musculoskeletal sprains and strains, and mild tension-type headaches.

Generally avoided from 20 weeks of pregnancy onward due to a risk of low amniotic fluid and fetal kidney effects, and is contraindicated from 30 weeks onward because it can cause premature closure of a blood vessel in the baby's heart. Occasional early pregnancy use should still be discussed with your prescriber.

Considered one of the preferred pain relievers during breastfeeding, as only very small amounts pass into breast milk.

Commonly used in children over 6 months of age for pain and fever, with the dose based on body weight.

Stomach upset or heartburn, Nausea, Headache, Dizziness, Mild fluid retention or swelling, Increased risk of stomach irritation or bleeding with prolonged use

Can rarely cause stomach ulcers or bleeding, kidney problems, or (with regular long-term use) an increased risk of heart attack or stroke. Seek medical attention for black or tarry stools, severe stomach pain, or signs of an allergic reaction.

Ibuprofen is an NSAID that blocks cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, lowering the body's production of prostaglandins, chemicals that drive pain, inflammation, and swelling. Because prostaglandins also trigger the uterine contractions behind menstrual cramps, reducing them eases period pain as well as pain and swelling from an injury or headache.

Ibuprofen should be avoided by anyone with an active GI bleed, significant kidney impairment, or a known NSAID hypersensitivity, including certain asthma or allergy reactions to NSAIDs. Taking it with food reduces stomach upset, and it's best used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest time needed, especially in older adults or alongside other regular medications like blood thinners.

Increases bleeding risk when combined with blood thinners like warfarin, and shouldn't be combined with other NSAIDs or regular aspirin use. It can also reduce the effectiveness of some blood pressure medications and raise lithium levels if taken together.

Take with food or milk to help reduce stomach upset.

Take with food, typically every 6-8 hours as needed, without exceeding the maximum daily dose on the label or from your pharmacist.

Store at room temperature away from moisture.

Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time needed. Avoid it if you have a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding without checking with your pharmacist first, and don't combine it with other NSAIDs.

The usual dose is 400mg every 6-8 hours with food, as needed; for menstrual cramps, starting right at the onset of pain or bleeding tends to work best, while for a sprain or strain it's typically used for a short course.

Pain and fever relief usually begins within 30-60 minutes and lasts about 4-6 hours. If pain continues beyond about 10 days, or fever beyond 3 days, without medical advice, check in with your pharmacist or prescriber.