Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works by reducing the production of prostaglandins, chemicals in the body that cause pain, inflammation, and fever. By blocking these substances, ibuprofen helps to decrease pain, swelling, and fever
. It is commonly used to relieve mild to moderate pain such as headaches, toothache, menstrual cramps, muscle aches, back pain, and pain from arthritis. It also helps reduce fever and inflammation caused by various conditions
. Ibuprofen typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes to start working when taken orally and can be found in various forms including tablets, capsules, and liquid suspensions
. In summary, ibuprofen:
- Relieves pain (e.g., headache, toothache, menstrual pain, muscle and joint pain)
- Reduces inflammation and swelling
- Lowers fever
It is widely used for short-term relief of these symptoms but should be used according to medical advice due to potential side effects, especially on the stomach and gastrointestinal tract
