Ibuprofen for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Overview

Ibuprofen is an over-the-counter medication used to treat pain, fever, and inflammation. It is sold under the brand names Motrin and Advil. Stronger doses of Ibuprofen are available by prescription. Ibuprofen is used to treat pain, stiffness, and swelling in joints caused by rheumatoid arthritis.

Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). NSAIDs help reduce fever, pain, and inflammation. Ibuprofen is believed to work by inhibiting the production of chemicals that promote inflammation and blood clot formation in the body.

How do I take it?
Always check with your doctor before taking a new medication, including over-the-counter medications.

Take Ibuprofen according to directions given by your doctor or found on the medication package. Do not exceed the recommended dosage. When taking NSAIDs, it is important to use the lowest dose that is effective and to take it for the shortest amount of time in order to avoid side effects.

Side effects
The risk of side effects from NSAIDs increases the longer you take them.

Ibuprofen may increase the risk of stroke, heart attack, and serious gastrointestinal injury including perforation.

Common side effects of Ibuprofen include abdominal pain and cramps, gastrointestinal ulcerations, bleeding, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, and nausea.

Contact your doctor if you experience severe stomach pain, nausea or vomiting, black stools that appear bloody or tarry, or a fever that lasts more than three days while taking Ibuprofen.

Seek medical help immediately if you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction such as trouble breathing, severe dizziness, rash, or itching or swelling of the face, tongue, and throat.

For answers to frequently asked questions about exposure to Ibuprofen during pregnancy and breastfeeding, visit the experts at MothertoBaby.org.