Ibuprofen is an effective pain relief medication used for a number of conditions. According to the Mayo Clinic, Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, or NSAID, available over-the-counter as a suspension and in tablet, capsule, chewable tablet, and liquid filled capsule forms. Prescription versions are available in higher doses and in combination with other drugs. Prescription Ibuprofen is available in intravenous form and can be ordered by a licensed physician for severe pain.
Positive Effects
Ibuprofen, also known most notably as Motrin, Advil and Midol, is used to treat mild to moderate pain, such as in the treatment of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile arthritis, and menstrual cramps. It is known to work by relieving inflammation, swelling, joint pain, and stiffness. Though effective in treating pain, only short-term use is recommended as there are safety issues associated with taking Ibuprofen even at low dosages.
Expert Insights
According to an article published in "Arthritis Today," and originally published in "Arthritis Care and Research," one study in Canada polled pharmacists in 27 locations and found that Ibuprofen is often the first choice of self-medication for people living with arthritis pain before they see a doctor. The study focused on obese or overweight white women with arthritis. The average age of participants in the study was 63 years old. Results clearly revealed that most patients in the study reported choosing Ibuprofen over acetaminophen for the treatment of arthritis pain before seeing a physician, despite the safety issues related to Ibuprofen use.
Safety Concerns
Ibuprofen use, both short- and long-term, has been found to aggravate heart disease, according to an article published in "Arthritis Today" by Jennifer Davis. This is of great concern to health care professionals, and they often recommend Acetamenophen as the first choice for pain relief rather than Ibuprofen. Acetamenophen is effective yet much less dangerous to take than Ibuprofen.
Side effects
Ibuprofen has been found to promote hypertension or high blood pressure in people with a history of cardiovascular disease. Additionally, and most commonly, Ibuprofen is associated with acute gastric upset and even stomach ulcers in people taking the drug over time.
Medication Complications
According to the Mayo Clinic, Ibuprophen has been found to interfere with dozens of medications, most notably the medications used to treat hypertension and the anti-seizure medication Dilantin, which is used to treat epilepsy.
