Ibuprofen

Overview

Non-selective Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID). Highly effective for inflammatory and musculoskeletal pain. Short half-life.

Maximum Dose

Max 2400 mg/day (strictly in divided doses, e.g., 400 mg q6h or 800 mg TDS). OTC limits often say 1200 mg/day.

Clinical Focus

Avoid in patients with asthma, severe kidney disease, or active peptic ulcers.

Bottom Line

Ibuprofen is a widely available NSAID for pain, inflammation, and fever, but carries significant GI bleeding, cardiovascular, and renal risk especially in elderly and dehydrated patients.

Brand Names

Nurofen, Advil, Brufen

Oral Routes

Tablets/Capsules (200, 400 mg). Oral liquid (100 mg/5mL).

Parenteral

Ampoules for IV use (Rare, usually reserved for patent ductus arteriosus closure in neonates).

Prescribing & PBS

Over The Counter (OTC) for 200 mg. S4 for higher strengths/large packs.

Primary

Inflammatory pain, dysmenorrhoea, fever, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis.

Clinical Place

Second step on analgesic ladder. The most widely used NSAID due to a relatively fast onset and acceptable safety profile at low doses.