Ibuprofen helps relieve pain and inflammation associated with conditions affecting joints or muscles (e.g. muscle strain or sprains, sports injuries).
Use Ibuprofen exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not use more or less than instructed by your doctor.
This medicine is available as a topical gel.
To apply Ibuprofen gel, follow these steps:
- Wash and dry your hands.
- Squeeze out the specified amount of gel from the container.
- Apply to a clean, dry and intact skin of the affected area. Massage gently.
- Allow the gel to dry.
- Wash and dry your hands after each application.
Avoid any contact of this medicine with your eyes. Rinse it immediately with water if the medicine gets into your eyes. Alert your doctor if you start to have any problems with your eyesight.
Do not bandage, cover or wrap the affected area after applying Ibuprofen unless instructed by the doctor.
Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
Do not use this medicine if you ever had an allergic reaction (e.g. rashes, breathlessness, swollen eyes) to Ibuprofen, aspirin or similar painkillers.
Do not apply on broken or damaged skin.
Do not use Ibuprofen if you are in your 3rd trimester of pregnancy. If you become pregnant while being treated with this medicine, alert your doctor immediately. Ibuprofen may cause harm to your unborn child.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- stomach or bowel ulcer
- history of asthma
- kidney disease
Let your doctor know if you are in your 1st or 2nd trimester of pregnancy, or if you are breastfeeding.
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving Ibuprofen to a child or the elderly. They may be more sensitive to the side effects.
Ibuprofen may cause any of the following side effects: redness, itching or irritation of the skin, stomach pain and indigestion.
This medicine may also make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight and UV lamps.
If you develop rashes, breathlessness, swollen mouth or eyes, stop applying Ibuprofen and inform your doctor immediately. These could be signs of an allergic reaction.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- other NSAIDs (medicine to relieve pain and inflammation)
- blood-thinning medicines e.g. warfarin, clopidogrel
- medicines for high blood pressure
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Ibuprofen.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.