Ibuprofen Uses

Ibuprofen uses –  Ibuprofen is an over-the-counter (OTC) drug approved for a wide variety of medical uses. Most commonly used to reduce fever, pain and inflammation, it is widely used by doctors to address arthritis, osteoarthritis, and severely painful menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea). Ibuprofen uses listed here are informational and should not be regarded as medical advice. Below are the twelve most common ibuprofen uses in practice. Ibuprofen is part of the class of drugs called NSAIDS, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. It was first approved by the FDA in the 1970’s as an analgesic for the treatment of mild to moderate pain available to the public. It works by blocking the enzyme which is a precursor (or ingredient) in the body’s synthesis of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are released by cells in the body in reaction to injury or cellular distress. Ibuprofen effectively blocks that release, and reduces the effects of prostaglandins, indirectly reducing fever, pain and inflammation.

Different dosages and dosing schedules, as well the length of time the patient uses ibuprofen, will produce different outcomes. Manufacturers provide dosing and usage directions on every bottle: users are strongly advised to adhere to the label instructions when using this or any medication – even if it is OTC. Physician-monitored uses of ibuprofen include carefully-monitored pediatric uses for childhood arthritis, and treatment of painful arthritis and osteoarthritis in adults. Post-surgical pain is widely treated with ibuprofen at off-label dosages as a short-term, non-habit-forming alternative to opioids.

12 Most Common Ibuprofen Uses

• 1. Pain
• 2. Fever associated with cold and flu
• 3. Headache
• 4. Sore throat
• 5. Toothache
• 6. Swelling
• 7. Muscle strain
• 8. Dysmenorrhea (painful period cramps)
• 9. Post-surgical pain reduction
• 10. Joint injury or discomfor
• 11. Arthritis and Osteoarthritis
• 12. Joint inflammatory disease in children or adults

Listed as a Class C drug, ibuprofen should be taken by pregnant women only under the supervision of a doctor. The drug has numerous side-effects, is not safe for pets, and should be used only by following the manufacturers label directions.