- Body system
- Pain
- Brand names
- Advil, Motrin, Caldolor (IV)
What is Ibuprofen used for?
- Mild to moderate pain
- Fever
- Inflammation: arthritis, musculoskeletal injuries
- Menstrual cramps
How Ibuprofen works
Nonselective NSAID: inhibits COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes and lowers prostaglandin production.
Common side effects
- Heartburn, nausea and stomach pain
- GI ulcers and bleeding
- Fluid retention and higher blood pressure
- Kidney injury
Report right away
- Black, tarry stools or vomiting blood
- Chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness on one side or slurred speech
- Decreased urine output or swelling
Nursing considerations for Ibuprofen
- Higher risk with age over 65, prior ulcers, anticoagulants, corticosteroids, SSRIs, alcohol and dehydration.
- Avoid in kidney disease, heart failure and after CABG. NSAIDs can reduce the effect of diuretics and antihypertensives.
- Avoid at 20 weeks of pregnancy or later unless prescribed (fetal kidney problems and low amniotic fluid); avoid from 30 weeks (premature closure of the ductus arteriosus).
Patient teaching
- Take with food or milk.
- Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time; do not combine with other NSAIDs.
- Check the labels of cold and pain products for other NSAIDs.
This card does not list doses. Use the prescriber's order, the product label and a current drug reference for dosing, and follow your facility's policies.
NSAIDs and acetaminophen practice questions
NCLEX-style questions on the class Ibuprofen belongs to.
3 questions. Choose an answer to see the rationale.
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Which finding in a patient taking ibuprofen daily should be reported?
Show answer
Answer D: Black, tarry stools Black, tarry stools suggest upper GI bleeding, a serious NSAID complication.
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What is the antidote for acetaminophen overdose?
Show answer
Answer A: Acetylcysteine Acetylcysteine replenishes glutathione and protects the liver after acetaminophen overdose.
-
What is the maximum total duration of ketorolac therapy?
Show answer
Answer A: 5 days Ketorolac (all routes combined) is limited to 5 days because of the risk of GI bleeding and kidney injury.
Frequently asked questions
What is Ibuprofen used for?
Mild to moderate pain; Fever; Inflammation: arthritis, musculoskeletal injuries; Menstrual cramps.
What drug class is Ibuprofen?
Ibuprofen belongs to the class NSAIDs and acetaminophen. Nonselective NSAID: inhibits COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes and lowers prostaglandin production.
What are the nursing considerations for Ibuprofen?
Higher risk with age over 65, prior ulcers, anticoagulants, corticosteroids, SSRIs, alcohol and dehydration. Avoid in kidney disease, heart failure and after CABG. NSAIDs can reduce the effect of diuretics and antihypertensives.
What should patients report while taking Ibuprofen?
black, tarry stools or vomiting blood; chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness on one side or slurred speech; decreased urine output or swelling.