Ibuprofen
Ibuprofen, drug used to reduce inflammation, fever, and the sensation of pain. In prescription form, ibuprofen is usually taken to relieve the more severe symptoms associated with arthritis. The nonprescription form available over the counter is taken for low-intensity pain, inflammation, or fever. Ibuprofen works by inhibiting the action of prostaglandins (chemicals that cause inflammation and contribute to the brain’s perception of pain). Ibuprofen reduces fever by blocking prostaglandin synthesis in the hypothalamus, a structure in the brain that regulates body temperature. Ibuprofen also acts as an anticoagulant, suppressing the formation of blood clots. In adults, the dosage of ibuprofen commonly prescribed for arthritis is 1200 to 3200 mg per day, usually divided into 3 or 4 doses. For mild to moderate pain in nonprescription uses, the dosage is generally 400 mg taken every 4 to 6 hours as necessary. Because ibuprofen can cause stomach upset, pills should be swallowed with a ful