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Brands

Nuprin, PediaProfen, Children’s Advil, Motrin

Availability

Comes in tablets and liquid form and can be purchased over the counter.

Pharmacology

A synthetic nonsteroidal drug that is analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic. Like other NSAIDs the theraputic action of ibuprofen is thought to be the inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis (Cox I & II).

It is absorbed rapidly and excreted in the urine.

Indications

Used to reduce pain and tenderness as well as minor swelling.

Drug Interactions or Contraindications

Although there are no reported interactions when using acetaminophen and ibuprofen concurrently, it is not recommended to do so.

Not recommended where active gastrointestinal bleeding is present.

The concomitant use of ibuprofen with other NSAIDs is not recommended due to the increased possibility of gastrointestinal toxicity.

Due to fluid retention properties of NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), the effect of diuretics may be reduced, and increased dosage of diuretics may be needed. Care should be taken if a rat has been placed on Lasix, or hydrochlorothiazide.

Adverse Reactions

Less side effects than aspirin

CV:  edema (swelling)

GI:  diarrhea, constipation, gastric distress

Skin:  itching, fluid retention

Dosage Recommendations

10 mg/kg to 30 mg/kg , PO , q4hrs  ¹

or

15 mg/lb to 60 mg/lb , PO , q4hrs (low dose for analgesia, high dose for anti-inflammatory effect)  ^3 20

Considerations

• Give with food to avoid GI reactions.
• Use with caution in renal and hepatic insufficiency.
• Care should be taken if giving to a rat where liver and/or renal impairment is thought to be present.
• *Note: non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines may mask clinical signs of infection. It is often recommended , if deciding to use NSAIDS or steroids in rats long term, to add a broad-spectrum antibiotic as part of the treatment regimen.
• Ibuprofen (like other medications of similar characteristics) should be discontinued prior to any type of surgery, in rats, due to mild interference with clotting.

Posted on June 23, 2003, 16:24, Last updated on December 14, 2008, 11:52 | NSAIDS