ibuprofen

/uy'byooh proh"feuhn, uy byooh"proh fen'/, n. Pharm.

a white powder, C₁₃H₁₈O₂, used esp. in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis as an anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic.

[1965-70; by contr., rearrangement and resp. of isobutylphenyl propionic acid, the chemical name]

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Analgesic, one of the NSAIDs, especially effective against minor pain, fever, and inflammation.

It works by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis. It may irritate the gastrointestinal tract and should not be taken by anyone who has an allergy to aspirin or takes anticoagulants. Brand names include Advil, Motrin, and Nuprin. See also acetaminophen.

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▪ drug

      nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug used in the treatment of minor pain, fever, and inflammation. Like aspirin, ibuprofen works by inhibiting the synthesis of prostaglandins (prostaglandin), body chemicals that sensitize nerve endings. The drug may irritate the gastrointestinal tract. Marketed under trade names such as Advil and Nuprin, ibuprofen is not recommended for use by children under the age of 12, and, like aspirin and acetaminophen, it should not be used during pregnancy except under medical supervision.

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