ibuprofen
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /ˈaɪbəprˌəʊfən/
US
- /ˌaɪbjuˈproʊfən/
Description
- Pain reliever
- fever reducer
- anti-inflammatory
Ibuprofen is a common over-the-counter medicine that people take to ease pain, lower a fever, or reduce swelling. People often use it for headaches, muscle aches, back pain, menstrual cramps, or minor injuries. It does not cure the cause of the problem, but it can help you feel better while your body recovers.
It belongs to a group of medicines called NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). These medicines help reduce inflammation, which is the swelling and soreness that often come with pain. Many people use it after exercise, during a cold, or when they have cramps. It is important to follow the dose instructions on the label.
Ibuprofen is a widely used medication in a class of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It is used to relieve pain, reduce fever, and decrease inflammation. It works by lowering the body's production of substances that contribute to pain, swelling, and fever.
Imagine that you have twisted your ankle. The pain is not only from the initial injury; it is also linked to swelling and inflammation around the joint. This medicine can help reduce that inflammation, which may lessen both the pain and the swelling. It is commonly used for headaches, toothaches, menstrual cramps, muscle aches, arthritis, and minor injuries.
You can find ibuprofen under various brand names, such as Advil or Motrin, but the active ingredient is the same. While it is generally safe when taken as directed, it is important to follow dosage instructions carefully. Taking too much can lead to side effects, and some medical conditions can make it a poor choice. A doctor or pharmacist can help if you are unsure whether it is safe for you, especially if you take other medicines.
In everyday life, ibuprofen is one of the most common medicines people use when pain, fever, or swelling gets in the way. It can be very helpful, but it should always be used carefully and according to the directions.
Examples
- 1
Asking for medicine
Do you have any ibuprofen? I left mine at home.
- 2
Headache relief
I took some ibuprofen for my headache, and it started to help after about half an hour.
- 3
Taking with food
The doctor told me to take ibuprofen with food.
Phrase
with food
while eating or soon after eating
- 4
Empty stomach
You shouldn't take ibuprofen on an empty stomach.
Phrase
on an empty stomach
without eating first
- 5
Medicine interactions
Check with your pharmacist before taking ibuprofen with other medicine.
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- ibuprofennoun
Forms
- ibuprofenspluralnoun