Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen, from isobutylphenylpropanoic acid, is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for treating pain, fever, and inflammation. This includes painful menstrual periods, migraines, and rheumatoid arthritis. About 60% of people improve with any given NSAID, and it is recommended that if one does not work then another should be tried. It may also be used to close a patent ductus arteriosus in a premature baby. It can be used by mouth or intravenously. It typically begins working within an hour.

Common side effects includes heartburn and a rash. Compared to other NSAIDs it may have fewer side effects such as gastrointestinal bleeding. It increases the risk of heart failure, kidney failure, and liver failure. At low doses it does not appear to increase the risk of myocardial infarction; however, at higher doses it may. It may result in worsened asthma. While it is unclear if it is safe in early pregnancy, it appears to be harmful in later pregnancy. Like other NSAIDs, it works by inhibiting the making of prostaglandins by decreasing the activity of the enzyme cyclooxygenase. Ibuprofen might be a weaker anti-inflammatory than other NSAIDs.