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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.

Since many NSAIDs have the potential to produce gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding avoid concomitant use of ibuprofen with aspirin, phenylbutazone, corticosteroids or other NSAIDs.

Due to fluid retention properties of NSAIDs (nonsteroidal 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

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.
• Care should be taken if giving to a rat where liver and/or renal impairment is thought to be present.
• 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 April 6, 2010, 18:11 | NSAIDS