Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used primarily to reduce fever, relieve pain, and decrease inflammation. It is commonly used for:
- Minor aches and pains such as headaches, muscle aches, toothaches, backaches, and pain from the common cold
- Pain and inflammation related to arthritis, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
- Menstrual pain (dysmenorrhea)
- Pain after dental procedures and other mild to moderate pain conditions
- Fever reduction, including post-vaccination fever
- Inflammatory diseases such as juvenile idiopathic arthritis and pericarditis
- Special uses include closing a patent ductus arteriosus in premature infants and managing pain as an adjunct to opioid analgesics
Ibuprofen works by blocking the body's production of prostaglandins, chemicals that cause pain, fever, and inflammation, thereby reducing these symptoms
. It is available over the counter in various forms and dosages for both adults and children, with specific guidelines for safe use
