Ibuprofen

Question 1

Ibuprofen - Mechanism of action

Answer 1

Non Steroid, Anti Inflammatory Drug (NSAID) mostly used to treat pain.
Inhibits the enzyme prostaglandin synthetase, reducing prostaglandin production.
Reduces inflammation, pain and fever.
Absorbed in stomach and metabolised in the liver.

Question 2

Ibuprofen - Indications

Answer 2

Mild to moderate pain (usually with paracetamol), such as soft tissue, musculoskeletal pain, or headache.
May be administered in addition to other measures for severe pain, particularly in long transport time.

Question 3

Ibuprofen - Contraindications

Answer 3

Known severe allergy.

Third trimester of pregnancy.

Question 4

Ibuprofen - Cautions

Answer 4

Taken ibuprofen in last 4 hours.
Age >= 75 years, esp in illness, infection or dehydration.
Bleeding disorder.
Shock or dehydration.
Bleeding (significant).
Renal impairment.
Abdominal pain, esp if patient is unwell/vomiting.
Pregnancy.
Warfarin.
Worsening of bronchospasm with NSAID's.

Question 5

Ibuprofen - Dosage

Answer 5

600mg adult over 80kg.
400mg adult under 80kg.
check paediatric drug tables for child.

Question 6

Ibuprofen - Common adverse effets

Answer 6

Renal impairment.

Increased bleeding.

Question 7

Ibuprofen - Usual onset of effect

Answer 7

30-60 minutes.

Question 8

Ibuprofen - Usual duration of effect

Answer 8

4 - 6 hours

Question 9

Ibuprofen - Usual preparation

Answer 9

200mg tablets.

Syrup containing 20mg/ml.

Question 10

Ibuprofen - Repeats

Answer 10

None.