What is ibuprofen and why is it so commonly used?
Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly used to relieve pain, reduce inflammation and lower fever. Available in a variety of forms (tablets, capsules, syrups, ointments and suppositories), it is used for both self-medication and prescription. Recommended for the treatment of headaches, muscular aches and pains, menstrual pain and fever, it is an effective alternative to paracetamol and aspirin.
What are the benefits of ibuprofen and its main indications?
1. A powerful painkiller
- Relieves headaches and migraines by reducing inflammation of the blood vessels.
- Alleviates muscle and joint pain, especially aches and pains, sprains and tendonitis.
- Recommended for dental and post-operative pain, as a complement to other treatments.
2. An effective anti-inflammatory for chronic pain
- Indicated for inflammatory diseases such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
- Reduces inflammation of the ENT tract, such as tonsillitis, sinusitis or otitis.
- Relieves pain associated with sports injuries, by reducing local inflammation.
3. An ally against fever and viral infections
- Helps lower body temperature in case of flu or viral infection.
- Used in addition to paracetamol, for a stronger antipyretic effect.
- Effective in adults and children, provided appropriate dosage is used.
4. An effective treatment for painful periods
- Reduces uterine spasms responsible for intense menstrual pain.
- Can be taken before the onset of pain, for preventive action.
- An effective alternative to antispasmodics, which are often less potent.
5. A useful treatment for local trauma and inflammation
- Available in gel or cream form, to relieve localized muscle and joint pain.
- Recommended after a shock, sprain or contusion, to limit swelling.
- Combined with paracetamol, it can be used post-operatively.
6. A possible paediatric treatment for mild to moderate pain
- Administered in the form of syrups or suppositories, for children aged 3 months and over.
- Indicated for persistent fever, when paracetamol is insufficient.
- Should be used with caution, due to the risk of increased side effects in children.
7. Available without prescription, but under supervision
- Available in pharmacies for occasional, low-dose use.
- Recommended as a short course of treatment, not exceeding 3 days for fever and 5 days for pain.
- Medical supervision is recommended in cases of prolonged self-medication or underlying pathology.
How to use ibuprofen correctly and safely?
1. Recommended dosage
- Adults: generally 200 to 400 mg every 6 to 8 hours, without exceeding 1200 mg per day for self-medication.
- Children: dose adjusted according to weight (5 to 10 mg/kg every 6 to 8 hours), on medical advice.
- Best taken with a meal, to limit gastric risks.
2. Combination with other drugs
- May be combined with paracetamol, alternately or simultaneously, for enhanced analgesic effect.
- Do not combine with other anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), to avoid increased risk of side effects.
- Not to be used with certain anticoagulants or cardiovascular drugs, without prior medical advice.
3. Local application (gels and ointments)
- Lightly massage into the painful area, 2 to 3 times a day.
- Avoid contact with mucous membranes and open wounds.
- Wash hands after application, to avoid contact with eyes.
What are the precautions and contraindications of ibuprofen?
- Not recommended in cases of gastric ulcers or severe digestive disorders.
- Do not take if allergic to NSAIDs or aspirin, as severe reactions may occur.
- Contraindicated in pregnant women from 6ᵉ months of pregnancy, due to risk of fetal complications.
- May aggravate certain cardiovascular and renal pathologies, medical advice is recommended.
- Monitoring required in the elderly, due to increased risk of adverse effects.
What are the possible side effects of ibuprofen?
- Digestive disorders: heartburn, nausea, abdominal pain, risk of gastric ulcer.
- Allergic reactions: skin rashes, edema, shortness of breath (monitor closely).
- Cardiovascular effects: increased blood pressure, increased risk of heart attack with prolonged use.
- Kidney disorders: reduced renal function in certain at-risk individuals.
- Headaches and dizziness, in case of overdose or prolonged use.
How do I choose the right ibuprofen for my needs?
- Oral form (tablets, capsules, syrup): ideal for generalized pain and fever.
- Gel or ointment: recommended for localized muscle and joint pain.
- Formulas with or without gastroresistant coating, to limit digestive irritation.
- Dosage adjusted according to age and weight, especially for children and seniors.
Ibuprofen is available in pharmacies, in the form of generics or specific brands such as Nurofen®, Advil® or Spedifen®, over the counter or by prescription, depending on dosage.
