What is in Ibuprofen?

Definition

Ibuprofen is a popular generic drug that is used to treat fever, pain and inflammation. It belongs to the drug class known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Ibuprofen has a quick onset of action and typically produces the response within one hour. It can be taken orally or intravenously.

Ibuprofen was first discovered in 1961 and because of its therapeutic efficacy; it quickly made it to the World Health Organization’s List of Essential Medicines. It is one of most commonly prescribed medicines in the world.

Chemical & Physical Features

• IUPAC name: 2-[4-(2-methyl propyl) phenyl] propanoic acid

• Synonyms: Alpha-methyl-4-(2-methylpropyl) benzene acetic acid, Ibuprofen, (+-)-Isomer

• CAS: 15687-27-1

• Molecular formula: C13H18O2 

• Molecular weight: 206.28 g/mol 

• Color: Colorless

• Form: Crystalline stable solid

• Solubility: 21 mg/L (at 25 °C) 

Brand names

Ibutabs, Ibux, Ipren, Lotem, Addaprin, Actiprofen, Rufen, Salprofen, Brufen 

Ibuprofen Forms and Specifications

• Ibuprofen API Powder 99%

The raw form of ibuprofen is used in making tablets and capsules which we will talk about in the following lines of this discussion. 

• IBUPROFEN SODIUM

It is a newer form of ibuprofen that features better solubility and absorption rates as compared to ibuprofen (IBU). This better absorption then eventually results in rapid analgesic effects experienced by the body.  

• Ibuprofen Oral Suspension

Ibuprofen 100mg/5ml is an oral suspension that is ideal for treating mild to muscular pain, post-immunization pyrexia, and headache and earache relief. 

• Ibuprofen Tablets 

These tablets are available in 400 mg, 600 mg, and 800 mg variants. The active ingredient is ibuprofen i.e., (±)-2-(p-isobutyl phenyl) propionic acid. Inactive ingredients include colloidal silicon dioxide, magnesium stearate, cellulose, and stearic oxide to name a few. These tablets are ideal for alleviating signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and related issues. 

•  Ibuprofen Capsules

The active ingredient in each capsule is ibuprofen 200mg NSAID. These capsules are ideal for alleviating pains due to headaches, muscular aches, toothache, backache, and menstrual cramps. 

Comparisons

• Acetaminophen vs Ibuprofen

Acetaminophen hails from the tribe of drugs dubbed as analgesics. Ibuprofen, as we have mentioned earlier as well, belongs to the NSAID class of drugs. While both drugs have the effect of decreasing pain, the added plus with ibuprofen is that it decreases inflammation as well.  

• Naproxen vs Ibuprofen

Naproxen provides relief for a longer period as compared to ibuprofen. 2-3 doses of Naproxen are enough for a day, while in the case of ibuprofen, it can be taken every 6-8 hours.  

• Tylenol vs ibuprofen

Tylenol is a non-aspirin pain reliever while ibuprofen is an NSAID. Tylenol is ideal for alleviating fever and pain. On the other hand, ibuprofen offers relief from inflammation as well. However, ibuprofen is not suitable for everyone’s use. 

•  Aspirin vs ibuprofen

The distinguishing difference between these two is that of active ingredients. Aspirin is made of salicylic acid while ibuprofen is made using propionic acid. However, because both of them are NSAIDs, they can be used to seek relief from a similar set of situations, for example, pain, fever and inflammation. 

How Does Ibuprofen Work?

Like most NSAIDs, ibuprofen works by blocking the production of certain chemicals that lead to inflammation in the body in the first place. Our body produces prostaglandins in response to illness and injury, which are the main reasons for pain and swelling that is associated with inflammation. It is by blocking prostaglandins that ibuprofen shows its effects. Ibuprofen blocks prostaglandins by non-selective inhibition of cyclooxygenases, enzymes that are responsible for their production in the first place. 

Ibuprofen Manufacturing Process

Ibuprofen is manufactured using three reactors:

• In the first reactor, isobutyl benzene is converted into an intermediary product via Friedel-Crafts acylation. 

• In the next step of the process, this intermediate product is converted into another intermediary product which then undergoes base hydrolysis. 

• The third reactor involves yielding the potassium salt of ibuprofen. 

These three flow reactions are followed by a continuous liquid-liquid extraction LLE with hexane or toluene. 

Ibuprofen Uses

• Ibuprofen for fever

It is one of the most popular over-the-counter medicines for treating fever. The exact dose that must be taken depends on body weight, body temperature, and the doctor’s opinion. Normally, for children over six months of age, the dose is around 5mg per kg of body. 

• Ibuprofen pain killer

For adults suffering from pain, 400 mg of ibuprofen every 4-6 hours ought to do the trick. 

• Ibuprofen anti-inflammatory

Compared to other NSAIDs, ibuprofen has a weak anti-inflammatory effect. The exact dose of ibuprofen varies from person to person, depending upon the patient’s subjective condition. For minor arthritis/osteoarthritis pain and inflammation, the dose is 200-400 mg every 4-6 hours. For severe pain, we recommend 1200-3200 mg 3-4 times a day (up to 3200 mg/day).

Ibuprofen Side Effects

Some of the commonly reported side effects include nauseous feelings, stomach pains, and feelings of fatigue, tinnitus, and sweating. 

Ibuprofen API manufacturers in China

• Shandong Xinhua Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd.

Been in the business since 1943, this company has acquired the leading position in China’s analgesic and antipyretic production industry.  

•  Hubei Biocause Heilen Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

This China-based company is one of the biggest manufacturers and distributors of ibuprofen in the country. 

Introduction to Pharmasources.com

The two examples that we have mentioned already are just a cherry on the cake that is about as sweet as things get. At pharmasources, you can search for hundreds of suppliers and manufacturers of ibuprofen in China, all of which are producing premium pharmaceutical grade ibuprofen active pharmaceutical agents. You could always find trustworthy medical surgical equipment suppliers, active pharma ingredients manufacturers, and pharma ingredients manufacturers on Pharmasources.com. Learn more about their modus operandi at pharmasources. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

As we scribble down the concluding remarks of this brief, we know that you have got questions bubbling in your mind. Let us put your mind to ease by answering some of the most frequently asked questions. 

How much ibuprofen can I take?

The exact dose varies from patient to patient, however, it is advised that adults must not consume more than 3200mg of ibuprofen in one day. Moreover, patients over sixty must exercise special caution when it comes down to managing symptoms with ibuprofen. 

Is ibuprofen a blood thinner?

Yes, the active ingredient found in Advil or other ibuprofen tablets decreases the clotting time.

Is ibuprofen an NSAID?

Yes, it is an NSAID.

Can I take ibuprofen after the COVID vaccine?

It is advisable to refrain from taking ibuprofen immediately after getting the COVID-19 vaccine. However, once things have settled back to normalcy, there is nothing wrong with taking ibuprofen. 

How long does ibuprofen last?

The effects of this drug generally last from 4-6 hours. However, your body can take as long as 24 hours to eliminate the drug from the system, completely.

Can you take ibuprofen and Tylenol Together?

While both drugs can be taken at the same time. It is advisable not to exceed the recommended dosages.