(ibuprofen)

Brands

Nuprin, PediaProfen, Children’s Advil, Motrin

Availability

• 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 therapeutic 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

15 mg/kg, PO  ^{41,  44}

or

10 mg/kg to 30 mg/kg, PO, q4hr  ^{1,  26,  28,  34}

or

15 mg/lb to 60 mg/lb, PO, q4hr (low dose for analgesia, high dose for anti-inflammatory effect) 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.
• Store tablets and liquid at room temperature in a dry place.