Ibuprofen Has the Best Results When It's Used Properly

A lot of people, at one time or another, are certain to have taken ibuprofen to relieve the pain caused by a severe headache, a nasty toothache, or a muscle strain. Others reach for this pain reliever to control their fever, alleviate the pain of menstrual cramps, or check the pain caused by their osteoarthritis. Ibuprofen is categorized as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug that can be purchased over the counter under an assortment of brand names. Because it is considered a powerful medication, people are reminded to use ibuprofen properly in order that they gain its benefits and reduce the risk of developing any secondary conditions. But not a few people still would like to know how ibuprofen exactly works as a pain-relieving drug.

To begin with, ibuprofen acts on damaged body tissues by lessening pain and reducing inflammation. It works by restricting the synthesis of prostaglandins - hormonelike chemicals that accelerate the progress of inflammation. Because ibuprofen also has the ability to lessen inflammation even in the brain, medical experts believe that this pain reliever may even reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease. However, doctors are explicit in warning against the use of ibuprofen if only for this purpose.

But what's incongruous is that while ibuprofen can effectively reduce pain and inflammation, the exact same factor that makes ibuprofen an effectual pain reliever is likewise considered a contributor to the risks it poses. Doctors are firm in saying that inhibiting the production of prostaglandins too frequently can increase the risk of certain conditions, including peptic ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, and kidney disorders. Another concern is that ibuprofen, which contains sodium, may increase fluid retention. This makes the use of ibuprofen particularly risky for people with lung congestion or those who have congestive heart failure (the latter may further experience or suffer from dropsy - an excess accumulation of serous fluid in connective tissue).

As much as it has its benefits, ibuprofen has several other downsides apart from those already mentioned above. Be aware that ibuprofen (or any other anti-inflammatory drug for that matter) may:

- raise blood pressure, especially when taken longer than directed;

- increase the blood levels of lithium - a medication specifically used to control bipolar disorder;

- impede the action of certain beta-blockers - drugs that reduce the rate and force of heart contractions and lower high blood pressure;

- interfere with certain diuretics; and

- retard the mending of bone fractures.

Still, many people trust ibuprofen as both a pain reliever and as an anti-inflammatory drug. As a matter of fact, medical experts rank ibuprofen high above other pain medications in terms of being safe. But that is, of course, only if it is used properly. Mind these requirements to ensure safety: do not take more than the dosage recommended by your doctor; do not drink alcoholic beverages while under this medication; and do not take this medication if you have an allergy to aspirin. People who suffer from asthma, diabetes, liver or kidney ailments, peptic ulcers, or heart problem would do well to first seek the professional advice of their doctor before taking ibuprofen. [Read the Original Article]