Ibuprofen Medications

Ibuprofen is an NSAID used to relieve pain, reduce fever, and decrease inflammation in conditions like arthritis and headaches.

Motrin

Ibuprofen

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200 | 400 | 600mg

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About Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen is a widely used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that relieves pain, reduces fever, and dampens inflammation. It belongs to the class of non-selective cyclo-oxygenase (COX) inhibitors and works by blocking the COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes that generate prostaglandins-a group of lipid compounds responsible for pain signaling, fever elevation, and swelling. In Singapore, ibuprofen has been approved by the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) for a range of adult indications, including mild to moderate musculoskeletal pain, dental pain, dysmenorrhea, and the symptomatic treatment of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Global brand names such as Advil, Nurofen, Motrin, and Brufen are commonly recognised, while generic formulations are readily available through our online pharmacy. Although the drug is over-the-counter in many countries, its safety profile warrants professional guidance, especially for prolonged use or in individuals with underlying health conditions.

What is Ibuprofen?

Ibuprofen is classified as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and a non-selective cyclo-oxygenase (COX) inhibitor. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) first approved it in 1974 for the relief of pain and fever, and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) later expanded its label to include inflammatory arthritides. The Health Sciences Authority of Singapore lists ibuprofen as an approved active ingredient for adult pain, fever, and inflammatory conditions, with dosage forms ranging from 200 mg tablets to 600 mg caps.

At the molecular level, ibuprofen binds reversibly to the COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, preventing the conversion of arachidonic acid into prostaglandin H₂, the precursor of all prostaglandins. By reducing prostaglandin synthesis, ibuprofen attenuates the sensitisation of nociceptors (pain receptors) and the vasodilation that underlies swelling and fever.

Both branded products (e.g., Advil, Nurofen, Motrin) and generic equivalents can be purchased from our pharmacy service, offering flexibility for patients who prefer a familiar name or a cost-saving option.

How Ibuprofen Works

Mechanism of Action

Ibuprofen occupies the active site of COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, blocking the enzymatic conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandin G₂/H₂. The resulting decline in prostaglandin levels curtails inflammation, diminishes peripheral sensitisation of pain fibers, and lowers the hypothalamic set-point for body temperature.

Therapeutic Effects

Because prostaglandins mediate pain, fever, and inflammation, ibuprofen’s COX inhibition translates directly into three clinical outcomes: (1) analgesia-reduction of the intensity of acute nociceptive pain; (2) antipyresis-normalisation of elevated core temperature; and (3) anti-inflammatory action-decreased swelling and stiffness in joint disorders.

Onset and Duration

Clinical studies show that oral ibuprofen begins to provide measurable pain relief within 30 minutes, with peak plasma concentrations occurring at about 1-2 hours. The antipyretic effect typically manifests within the first hour, while the anti-inflammatory benefit may require several days of consistent dosing. A single 400 mg dose sustains measurable COX inhibition for roughly 6-8 hours, guiding the standard dosing interval.

Approved Uses and Applications

Approved Indications

Mild to moderate acute pain (headache, dental pain, menstrual cramps, musculoskeletal strain).
Fever reduction in adults with infectious or inflammatory causes.
Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis for symptomatic relief of joint pain and stiffness.
Post-operative pain following minor surgical procedures.

These indications are endorsed by the HSA, the FDA, and the EMA, each citing robust phase III trial data that demonstrate statistically significant improvements in pain scores and functional outcomes compared with placebo.

Off-Label Uses

Ibuprofen has been studied for off-label applications such as migraine prophylaxis at low daily doses and the management of dysmenorrhea when conventional hormonal therapies are contraindicated. While peer-reviewed articles in journals like Neurology and Obstetrics & Gynecology report modest benefit, these uses are not formally approved by regulatory agencies.

Clinical Efficacy

A pivotal double-blind trial published in The New England Journal of Medicine reported a 45 % reduction in average pain intensity for patients with acute musculoskeletal injury after taking 400 mg ibuprofen every 6 hours for 48 hours, compared with a 20 % reduction in the placebo group. In osteoarthritis, a 12-week study in Lancet showed that 600 mg ibuprofen twice daily improved the WOMAC (Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index) score by 30 % versus baseline, highlighting its efficacy in chronic joint pain.

Buying Ibuprofen from Our Online Pharmacy

Why Choose Our Service

Access to affordable ibuprofen can be challenging when local pharmacies run low on stock or when brand-name packages carry a premium price. Through our platform, you can obtain both branded and generic ibuprofen without leaving your home, benefitting from discreet packaging and secure payment options.

Brand Names and Generic Options

Advil - widely recognised, available in 200 mg and 400 mg tablets.
Nurofen - offers a rapid-release formulation for fast pain relief.
Motrin - marketed in 200 mg caplets, often used for pediatric formulations but also sold for adults.
Brufen - a European brand now distributed globally, sold in 400 mg tablets.

Generic ibuprofen tablets, typically supplied in 200 mg, 400 mg, and 600 mg strengths, provide the same active ingredient at a lower cost. Our online pharmacy lists the price per unit, and most generic options are up to 40 % cheaper than brand-name equivalents.

Quality & Safety

We partner with licensed international pharmacies that comply with WHO Good Distribution Practice (GDP) standards and are inspected by national regulatory bodies, ensuring that every bottle meets stringent quality criteria.

Pricing & Access

Competitive pricing is highlighted on each product page, and we routinely offer a Lifetime 10 % discount on all reorders for registered members. Seasonal promotions may further reduce the out-of-pocket expense for bulk purchases.

Discreet Delivery

Orders ship via express couriers in approximately 7 days, while standard delivery arrives within 3 weeks. All parcels are placed in plain, unbranded boxes with protective cushioning, guaranteeing privacy and product integrity.

Dosing, Formulations & Administration

Available Formulations

Tablets - 200 mg, 400 mg, 600 mg.
Caplets - 200 mg, 400 mg.
Oral suspension - 100 mg/5 mL (primarily for pediatric use, but sometimes prescribed off-label for adults unable to swallow tablets).

Typical Dosing Ranges

For acute pain or fever, clinicians often start adults at 200-400 mg orally every 4-6 hours, not exceeding 1,200 mg per day without medical supervision. In chronic arthritic conditions, dosing may be escalated to 600 mg three times daily (maximum 1,800 mg/day) based on treatment response and tolerability.

Administration Guidelines

Ibuprofen can be taken with or without food; however, ingesting it alongside a meal or a glass of milk may lessen gastrointestinal irritation. Extended-release formulations should be swallowed whole; crushing or chewing can lead to dose dumping and increase the risk of adverse effects.

Important: The exact dose, frequency, and formulation must be determined by a qualified healthcare professional who considers individual medical history, concomitant medications, and renal or hepatic function.

Safety Profile & Considerations

Common Side Effects

Upper gastrointestinal discomfort (e.g., dyspepsia, nausea) - reported in >10 % of users.
Headache - occurs in approximately 5 % of patients.
Dizziness - observed in 3-4 % of trial participants.
Mild rash or itching - seen in 2 % of cases.

These effects are generally transient and resolve without intervention.

Serious Adverse Events

Gastro-intestinal bleeding or ulceration - rare (<0.1 %) but life-threatening; risk rises with high doses, prolonged therapy, or concurrent use of anticoagulants.
Cardiovascular thrombotic events - elevated risk in patients with established coronary artery disease or uncontrolled hypertension when using doses >1,200 mg/day.
Renal impairment - acute kidney injury may develop in individuals with pre-existing renal disease, dehydration, or concurrent nephrotoxic drugs.

Prompt medical evaluation is necessary if symptoms such as black stools, sudden swelling, or severe shortness of breath appear.

Contraindications

Known hypersensitivity to ibuprofen, aspirin, or other NSAIDs.
Active peptic ulcer disease or history of GI bleeding.
Severe heart failure, uncontrolled hypertension, or recent myocardial infarction.
Third-trimester pregnancy (contraindicated due to risk of premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus).

Drug Interactions

CYP2C9 inhibitors (e.g., fluconazole, amiodarone) can increase ibuprofen plasma levels.
Anticoagulants (warfarin, direct oral anticoagulants) - additive bleeding risk.
Other NSAIDs or COX-2 inhibitors - synergistic GI toxicity.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) - may augment bleeding propensity.
Alcohol - concurrent intake markedly raises the chance of gastric ulceration.

Patients should disclose all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products before initiating therapy.

Special Populations

Pregnancy: Use only under obstetric guidance; avoid after the first trimester unless benefits outweigh risks.
Breastfeeding: Small amounts pass into breast milk; generally considered compatible with short-term use, but caution is advised.
Elderly: Age-related decline in renal function necessitates lower starting doses and close monitoring for GI complications.
Renal or hepatic impairment: Dose adjustments or alternative analgesics may be preferable; regular laboratory monitoring is recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does ibuprofen differ from naproxen? Ibuprofen has a shorter half-life (≈2 hours) compared with naproxen (≈12-15 hours), leading to more frequent dosing but a quicker wash-out period. Naproxen provides longer sustained pain control but may carry a slightly higher cardiovascular risk profile.
How long before ibuprofen produces noticeable effects for migraine? For acute migraine attacks, oral ibuprofen (400 mg) often begins to relieve headache within 30-45 minutes, with peak effect at about 90 minutes. Some clinicians combine ibuprofen with a triptan for enhanced efficacy.
What should I do if I experience stomach pain after taking ibuprofen? Discontinue the medication and contact a healthcare provider promptly. They may recommend a gastro-protective agent (e.g., a proton-pump inhibitor) or switch to an alternative analgesic.
Can ibuprofen cause ulcers? Yes, chronic use-especially at high daily doses-can irritate the gastric lining and lead to ulcer formation. Concurrent use of alcohol, steroids, or anticoagulants amplifies this risk.
Does taking ibuprofen with food affect its absorption? Food does not significantly alter the extent of absorption but can reduce gastrointestinal irritation. Most patients find taking the tablet with a meal or snack more comfortable.
Is it safe to combine ibuprofen with alcohol? Combining the two increases the likelihood of gastric bleeding and ulceration. Occasional moderate alcohol intake is unlikely to cause severe issues, but regular heavy drinking should be avoided while using ibuprofen.
What are the recommended ibuprofen doses for menstrual cramps? A typical regimen involves 400 mg taken orally every 4-6 hours, not exceeding 1,200 mg per day. If pain persists, a healthcare professional may adjust the dose or suggest adjunct therapy.
Can ibuprofen be used for children over 12 years old? Yes, adolescents 12 years and older may use the adult formulation, but dosing should be weight-based (approximately 10 mg/kg per dose) and guided by a clinician.
What foods should I avoid while taking ibuprofen? No specific foods are contraindicated, but excessive caffeine or very spicy meals may exacerbate gastrointestinal discomfort. Maintaining adequate hydration is advisable.
What information should I provide my doctor when discussing ibuprofen?
- Complete list of current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
- History of any gastrointestinal issues, cardiovascular disease, or renal/hepatic impairment.
- Recent alcohol consumption patterns.
- Specific pain or fever symptoms you aim to treat, including duration and severity.

Disclaimer

The information provided about ibuprofen is for general knowledge only. It does not replace professional medical consultation or the official prescribing information for medications containing this ingredient. All treatment decisions, including dosing, formulation selection, and monitoring, should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider who can assess individual medical history, current medications, and specific health needs. We assume all readers are responsible adults capable of making informed decisions about their health. Our online pharmacy offers access to medications containing ibuprofen for individuals who may have limited availability through traditional pharmacies, prescription-based insurance schemes, or who are seeking affordable generic alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication containing ibuprofen.