Products
Ibuprofen sodium was commercially available in many countries in the form of film-coated tablets (Saridon /-forte). Meanwhile, Saridon contains ibuprofen rather than the sodium salt (Saridon neo).
Structure and properties
Ibuprofen sodium (C13H21NaO4, Mr = 264.3 g/mol) is the salt of the analgesic ibuprofen with sodium. It exists as ibuprofen sodium dihydrate (2 H2O). Ibuprofen is negatively charged and sodium is positively charged. Ibuprofen is a racemate and a propionic acid derivative.
Effects
Ibuprofen sodium (ATC M01AE01) has analgesic, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, and mild antiplatelet properties. The effects are due to inhibition of cyclooxygenase and inhibition of the synthesis of prostaglandins. The half-life is short and is about two hours. The effect is more rapid if ibuprofen is taken in the form of the sodium salt rather than as an acid, because ibuprofen sodium dissolves better in water and is thus absorbed more quickly. The tablet also contains an additional disintegrant. Maximum plasma concentration is reached after about 40 minutes. Ibuprofen is practically insoluble in water. Cmax of conventional ibuprofen is reached only after 1 to 2 hours.
Indications
For the treatment of pain, fever, and inflammatory conditions.
Dosage
According to the professional information. The medicine is usually taken three times a day. The usual single dose for adults is 200 mg to 600 mg of ibuprofen.
Contraindications
Numerous precautions must be considered before use. Full details of precautions and drug interactions can be found in the Drug Information Leaflet.
Adverse effects
The most common possible adverse effects include gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, vomiting fullness, heartburn, pain, diarrhea, and constipation, as well as hypersensitivity reactions. Like all NSAIDs, ibuprofen can rarely cause serious side effects, such as gastrointestinal ulcers, blood count changes, cardiovascular disease, and kidney disease. It should therefore be taken with caution and for as short a time as possible.
