Ibuprofen Pain Reliever

A common pain reliever, ibuprofen (marketed under brand names such as
 Motrin®, Advil®, Genpril®, and Nuprin®) is a medicine that works by blocking the effects of certain chemicals in the body. By blocking these pain- and inflammation-causing chemicals (known as prostaglandins), ibuprofen can help reduce pain and fever related to a number of conditions, such as arthritis or bursitis.
 
Ibuprofen is generally a safe and effective medication, but it is not suitable for everyone. It's important to note that ibuprofen (as well as other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) can increase your risk of a heart attack or stroke. Be sure to tell your healthcare provider before starting treatment if you have ever had any of the following:
 
(For more details on this pain reliever, click Ibuprofen. Topics discussed in this overview article include potential side effects, what to do if you take too much, and why you should take the lowest effective dose.)
 
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD