Ibuprofen side effects
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Ibuprofen Side Effects: A Comprehensive Overview
Common Side Effects of Ibuprofen
Gastrointestinal Issues
Ibuprofen, a widely used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is known to cause gastrointestinal (GI) side effects. These include both upper and lower digestive tract lesions, which can be exacerbated by dehydration, making it crucial to avoid ibuprofen in patients with diarrhea and vomiting . In clinical trials, the frequency of upper GI upset was reported to be between 0.8% and 0.9% among subjects, comparable to placebo and acetaminophen . Additionally, ibuprofen has been associated with gastrointestinal bleeding, although this is considered a rare occurrence .
Renal and Hepatic Concerns
Renal dysfunction is another significant concern with ibuprofen use, particularly in dehydrated patients or those with pre-existing renal conditions. It is advised not to administer ibuprofen to patients with renal impairment or those at risk of dehydration . Hepatic injury, although less common, has also been reported as a potential side effect .
Cardiovascular Risks
Ibuprofen can affect blood pressure and has been linked to cardiovascular events. These risks necessitate caution, especially in patients with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions .
Rare and Unusual Side Effects
Increased Libido and Erectile Function
An unusual and rare side effect of ibuprofen is increased libido and erectile function, as reported in a case involving a 26-year-old male post-dental therapy. This side effect remains unexplained and is not commonly associated with ibuprofen use .
Cutaneous Reactions
Ibuprofen can cause various skin reactions, including photosensitivity, angioedema, urticarial rashes, and in rare cases, generalized bullous fixed drug eruption (GBFDE). A case study highlighted a 20-year-old male who developed multiple painful bullous eruptions after taking ibuprofen for a toothache .
Ocular Side Effects
Although rare, ibuprofen has been reported to cause minor ocular side effects. These are generally not severe but should be monitored in patients using the drug for extended periods .
Pediatric Considerations
Safety in Children
Ibuprofen is commonly used in pediatric care for treating inflammation, mild-to-moderate pain, and fever. However, its use should be carefully monitored to avoid adverse reactions. It is contraindicated in neonates and children with wheezing, persistent asthma, or during varicella . Gastrointestinal and renal side effects are of particular concern in pediatric patients, especially when the drug is used without medical supervision .
Postoperative Pain Management
In pediatric cardiac surgery, the addition of intravenous ibuprofen to a multimodal analgesia regimen has been shown to improve postoperative analgesia without significantly increasing the incidence of side effects such as bleeding, epigastric pain, and vomiting. No cases of postoperative renal dysfunction were reported in this context .
Conclusion
Ibuprofen is a widely used NSAID with a generally favorable safety profile when used appropriately. Common side effects include gastrointestinal upset and renal concerns, while rare side effects can range from increased libido to severe cutaneous reactions. Special caution is advised in pediatric use and in patients with pre-existing conditions. Understanding these side effects can help in making informed decisions about ibuprofen use and ensuring patient safety.
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