Ibuprofen
Last published: June 17, 2019
What is ibuprofen?
Ibuprofen is a pharmaceutical drug that is classified as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).
Ibuprofen is used to treat a number of conditions including:
- mild to moderate pain
- severe pain (when combined with codeine)
- fever
- swollen, red and tender tissues (inflammation)
- rheumatoid arthritis, back pain and gout (in conjunction with physiotherapy).1
Some people misuse ibuprofen by intentionally taking more than the recommended dose in a mistaken attempt to get high, or as an act of self-harm.
Ibuprofen is usually swallowed and comes in different forms including:
- tablets
- capsules
- suppositories
- soluble powders
- liquids.1
Other names
Ibuprofen may also be known by its brand or trade names. Some common examples include:
| Generic name | Brand names |
|---|---|
| Ibuprofen | Brufen®, Nurofen® |
| Ibuprofen and codeine | Nurofen Plus® |
Effects of ibuprofen
There is no safe level of drug use. Use of any drug always carries some risk – even medications can produce unwanted side effects. It’s important to be careful when taking any type of drug.
Ibuprofen affects everyone differently, based on:
- size, weight and health
- whether the person is used to taking it
- whether other drugs are taken around the same time
- the amount taken.
Side effects
The most common side effects of ibuprofen are:
- headache
- dizziness
- drowsiness, fatigue and restless sleep
- thirst and sweating
- tingling or numbness in hands and feet
- ringing in the ears
- blurred vision and eye irritation
- fluid retention and ankle swelling
- mild allergic reaction
- abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, diarrhoea and constipation
- bladder irritation and pain, frequent urination.1,2
NSAIDs such ibuprofen can increase the risk of heart attack or stroke in people with or without heart disease or the risk factors for heart disease.2
Overdose
If you take more than the recommended dose, you could overdose. Call an ambulance straight away by dialling triple zero (000) if you have any of these symptoms (ambulance officers don’t need to involve the police):
- confusion and disorientation
- anxiety and paranoia
- anaemia (low red blood cell count)
- vomiting blood that may look like coffee grounds and bowel motions that look like black tar
- severe allergic reaction, including swelling of the face
- kidney and liver problems
- seizures
- coma and death.1
Long-term effects
It’s best to discuss the side effects of long term use with a medical practitioner. Regular use of ibuprofen may eventually cause:
- kidney and liver damage
- bleeding in the stomach and bowels
- increased risk of heart attack.1
Using ibuprofen with other drugs
The effects of taking ibuprofen with other drugs, including alcohol, prescription medications and other over-the-counter medicines, are often unpredictable.
Ibuprofen taken with alcohol can increase the risk of stomach irritation and discomfort.1
Ibuprofen can alter the effects of some blood pressure medicines and may increase the risk of bleeding if taken with medicines such as warfarin.1
- Upfal J. (2006) The Australian drug guide (7th Ed.) Melbourne: Black Inc.
- Medline Plus. (2010). Ibuprofen.