Ibuprofen for Fibromyalgia

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 and stiffness caused by fibromyalgia.

Ibuprofen should not be used by people who are allergic to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Celebrex. Ibuprofen may not be appropriate for pregnant women. Do not take Ibuprofen while you are also taking aspirin or another NSAID drug. Ibuprofen should be used with caution in smokers, diabetics, and people with a history of heart problems, liver disease, stomach ulcers, kidney problems, gastrointestinal bleeding, high blood pressure, or strokes.

Ibuprofen is an 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.

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