Drug reference
ibuprofen
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Drug class
Musculoskeletal (NSAIDs)
Mechanism of action
Inhibits synthesis of prostaglandins in body tissues by inhibiting at least 2 cyclo-oxygenase (COX) isoenzymes, COX-1 and COX-2 May inhibit chemotaxis, alter lymphocyte activity, decrease proinflammatory cytokine activity, and inhibit neutrophil aggregation; these effects may contribute to anti-inflammatory activity.
Common side effects
- Epigastric pain
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Heartburn
- Tinnitus
Known interactions (13)
- ibuprofen + Ketorolac Contraindicated
- aspirin + ibuprofen Major
- desmopressin + ibuprofen Major
- diclofenac + ibuprofen Major
- diclofenac potassium + ibuprofen Major
- fluoxetine + ibuprofen Major
- ibuprofen + lithium Major
- ibuprofen + methotrexate Major
- ibuprofen + warfarin Major
- bisoprolol + ibuprofen Moderate
- captopril + ibuprofen Moderate
- ibuprofen + insulin Moderate
- ibuprofen + Vasopressin Moderate
Related conditions
Frequently asked questions
What drug class is ibuprofen?
ibuprofen belongs to: Musculoskeletal.
How does ibuprofen work?
Inhibits synthesis of prostaglandins in body tissues by inhibiting at least 2 cyclo-oxygenase (COX) isoenzymes, COX-1 and COX-2 May inhibit chemotaxis, alter lymphocyte activity, decrease proinflammatory cytokine activity, and inhibit neutrophil aggregation; these effects may contribute to anti-inflammatory activity.
What are the common side effects of ibuprofen?
Epigastric pain, Constipation, Dizziness, Heartburn, Tinnitus
Which drugs interact with ibuprofen?
Ketorolac, aspirin, desmopressin, diclofenac, diclofenac potassium, fluoxetine, lithium, methotrexate, warfarin, bisoprolol, captopril, insulin, Vasopressin
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