Ibuprofen is used to relieve the pain, tenderness, inflammation (swelling), and stiffness caused by arthritis and gout. It is also used to reduce fever and to relieve headaches, muscle aches, menstrual pain, aches and pains from the common cold, backache, and pain after surgery or dental work.

Special precautions

Before taking ibuprofen,

• Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to ibuprofen, aspirin or other medications for pain or arthritis, or any other drugs.
• Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking anticoagulants ('blood thinners' Do not take aspirin or acetaminophen when using ibuprofen unless directed to do so by your doctor.
• Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had liver, heart, or kidney disease; high blood pressure; any stomach problems; or any other gastrointestinal disease.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking ibuprofen, call your doctor.
• If you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking ibuprofen.
• You should know that this drug may make you drowsy. Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how this drug affects you.
• If you drink 3 or more alcohol drinks every day, ask your doctor if you should take ibuprofen. You should not drink alcoholic beverages while taking ibuprofen.

Side effects

Although side effects from ibuprofen are not common, they can occur:

• headache
• dizziness
• nervousness
• upset stomach
• stomach pain or cramps
• vomiting
• constipation
• diarrhea
• gas

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

• bloody vomit
• bloody diarrhea or black, tarry stools
• ringing in the ears
• blurred vision
• swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
• skin rash

Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor may order certain lab tests to check your response to ibuprofen.