Ibuprofen is a nonprescription pain killer that is sold in its generic form or under a number of different brand names, including Advil, Midol, IBU, Genpril, Nuprin, and Motrin. This drug is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It functions by decreasing the hormones in the body that are responsible for causing inflammation and therefore pain.
Aside from pain treatment and inflammation reduction, this medication can also be used for reducing fever. Pain that can be reduced through the use of Ibuprofen includes headache, menstrual cramps, arthritis, back pain, toothache, and minor injuries.
Although considered to be safe and effective, ibuprofen is not appropriate for use by everyone. Its use should especially be avoided over the long term as it can lead to circulation and heart problems that can be life threatening, including stroke or heart attack. It should not be used immediately before or after a coronary artery bypass graft (heart bypass surgery). Long term use of this product can also lead to serious effects in the digestive system, such as stomach or intestinal issues, including perforation and bleeding. These can occur without warning and can be fatal.
Before taking ibuprofen – particularly for the first time – it is recommended that you speak with your doctor to know that it is right for you. Use the smallest possible amount of the medication to ensure that you will receive the pain relief that you require. These pills should be taken precisely as directed on the label or as recommended by a doctor. It is very important not to take any larger or smaller amounts of this pill than recommended by the doctor or product label, just as it should not be taken for longer than prescribed.
Overdose of Ibuprofen is possible and it can lead to stomach or intestinal damage. No more than 800 milligrams should be taken per dose, and no more than 3200 milligrams should be taken in a given day. If taking this pain killer upsets your stomach, take it with food or milk. The capsules should be swallowed whole without chewing, breaking, or crushing them in any way. Tablets and capsules can be cut in half using a pill cutter (not a knife) but should not be crushed. Chewable tablets should be chewed up before being swallowed.
Ibuprofen should be taken only as needed, as little as possible. If you are taking it on a dosing schedule as prescribed by a doctor, follow it closely and have any questions answered by the pharmacist or doctor before taking this medication.
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