Content
Ibuprofen is a medication that has anti-inflammatory and analgesic action because it reduces the formation of substances that cause inflammation and pain in the body. Thus, it can be used to treat some common problems such as fever and mild to moderate pain, associated with colds and flu, sore throat, tooth, headache or menstrual cramps, for example.
Ibuprofen can be found in pharmacies with the trade names Alivium, Advil, Buprovil, Ibupril or Motrin and in generic form, but should only be used under the guidance of a doctor, as the dose may vary according to the problem to be treated, person's age and weight.
In addition, the use of ibuprofen without medical advice may end up masking symptoms that could help the doctor reach the diagnosis.
The main situations in which the doctor may advise the use of ibuprofen are:
1. Fever
Ibuprofen is indicated in cases of fever because it has an antipyretic action, that is, it reduces the formation of substances that cause an increase in body temperature.
Fever is a way for the body to defend itself from aggressive agents such as viruses and bacteria and is considered a symptom that something is wrong with the body. In cases where the fever does not go down even when taking ibuprofen, it is important to consult a doctor to check the cause and treat it properly.
The child or baby should be taken to the pediatrician whenever they have a fever because the immune system is not yet fully mature and they need medical evaluation and appropriate treatment.
Learn how to measure the temperature correctly.
2. Common colds and flu
Ibuprofen can be used to treat the symptoms of flu and the common cold because it has anti-inflammatory action, in addition to lowering fever and reducing pain.
The flu is an infection caused by the influenza virus and usually shows symptoms of chills, cold sensation, body pain, tiredness, headache and fever in the first days, which can reach 39ºC.
In the common cold, the fever is not common, but it can occur mildly, and the main symptoms are sore throat or a congested nose that usually disappear between 4 and 10 days after infection.
3. Sore throat
Ibuprofen can be used to relieve sore throat, called tonsillitis or pharyngitis, which usually occurs due to viral infection caused by the common cold. In these cases, the tonsils or pharynx become inflamed, becoming red and swollen, causing pain or difficulty eating or swallowing.
If in addition to the sore throat, other symptoms such as cough, high fever or tiredness appear, it is important to consult the general practitioner or otolaryngologist to assess the possibility of bacterial infection and the need to use antibiotics.
Check out some simple steps you can take at home to help relieve sore throat.
4. Menstrual cramps
Menstrual colic is always uncomfortable and can last from 1 to 3 days during menstruation, in which case ibuprofen can be used to relieve pain caused by contraction of the uterus muscle and inflammation due to the production of inflammatory substances such as cyclooxygenase , for example.
It is important to have regular consultations with the gynecologist, at least once a year, to assess, monitor and detect problems that can cause cramps during menstruation and to start specific treatment if necessary.
5. Toothache
Toothache can appear in several ways such as sensitivity to heat or cold, eating sweet food or drinks, when chewing or brushing your teeth and is usually caused by poor oral hygiene that leads to the formation of cavities and gum problems.
In these cases, ibuprofen acts on inflammation and pain, and can be used pending the dentist's evaluation. In addition, you can combine other home remedies to help relieve toothache. Check out 4 homemade options for toothache.
In cases of dental surgery, with mild to moderate postoperative pain, ibuprofen can also be used.
6. Tension headache
Tension headaches are caused by insomnia or stress, for example, which may have pain around the eyes or the feeling of having a belt tightening around the forehead.
Ibuprofen for its anti-inflammatory action can relieve pain caused by inflammation of the muscles of the head and neck that become more rigid causing the pain.
Know the main types of headache.
7. Muscle pain
Ibuprofen is indicated for muscle pain by fighting substances that cause inflammation of the muscles.
Muscle pain, also called myalgia, can occur due to excessive training that causes muscle overload, depression, virus infections or poor position, for example.
If muscle pain does not improve with the use of ibuprofen, it is important to see a doctor to find out the cause of the pain and start specific treatment.
8. Pain in the spine or sciatic nerve
Ibuprofen can be used for initial relief of pain in the spine and sciatic nerve by improving pain and inflammation that can usually occur locally or that can radiate to other regions such as arms, neck or legs.
Pain in the spine or sciatic nerve should be monitored by an orthopedic doctor to assess the cause that can normally be associated with the bones and discs of the spine, muscles and ligaments.
Watch the video on exercises to relieve sciatic nerve pain.
9. Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
Ibuprofen can be used together with other pain relievers to relieve joint pain, swelling and redness that are common in rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, mild fever can still occur and ibuprofen is effective in improving this symptom.
It is also advisable to follow up with a doctor and physiotherapist frequently to treat and improve joint flexibility and for muscle strengthening. Also check out exercises that can be done at home for rheumatoid arthritis.
Possible side effects
The most common side effects of ibuprofen are pain or burning in the stomach, nausea, vomiting or increased blood pressure.
In addition, although it is more rare, itchy skin, poor digestion, constipation, loss of appetite, diarrhea, excess intestinal gas, headache, irritability and ringing in the ears can also occur.
Who should not use
Ibuprofen should not be used in cases of stomach ulcer, gastrointestinal bleeding or liver, kidney or heart failure.
This medication should also not be used by pregnant or nursing women and children under 6 months of age. The use of ibuprofen in children under 2 years of age should only be done under medical guidance.
See more information on who should not use and how to take ibuprofen.