Ibuprofen Topical

About Ibuprofen Topical

This belongs to the group of medicines known as topical Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Topical Ibuprofen is used to relieve pain and inflammation in the muscles, tendons and joints, it is also used for pain caused by rheumatism and neuralgia.

Ibuprofen works by reducing the effect of irritant chemicals which are produced by the body as a response to inflammation.

Topical Ibuprofen is available in spray, foam cream, gel and lotion form.

It is also sometimes known as: Deep Relief; Fenbid; Fenbid Forte; Ibuderm; Ibugel; Ibuleve; Ibumousse; Ibuspray; Ibutop; Ibutop Cuprofen; Mentholatum; Nurofen; Proflex; Radian-B. You may notice the use of any of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before using Ibuprofen Topical

Before using Ibuprofen make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you suffer from kidney problems
• if you suffer from rhinitis, asthma, or breathing problems
• if you have ever had an unusual reaction from taking aspirin or NSAIDs. Other NSAIDs include Naproxen and Diclofenac.
• if you have a stomach ulcer
• if you have eczema, broken skin, sores or rashes at the site of injury
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking or using any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines

How to use Ibuprofen Topical

• Apply Ibuprofen exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• Ibuprofen should be applied with gentle massage only. Avoid contact with eyes, inside the nose, inflamed or broken skin. Do not use on dressed open wounds. Hands should be washed immediately after use.
• If you miss applying Ibuprofen at your usual time, apply it as soon as you remember. However if it is almost time for your next application, skip the missed one and continue applying at the usual times. Do not use two doses at the same time to compensate.
• Ibuprofen Topical is for external use only. If you suspect that you or someone has swallowed Ibuprofen Topical go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if empty.
• This medicine is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Before taking or using any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take or use alongside Ibuprofen.
• Ibuprofen may cause your skin to become more sensitive to sunlight than it is usually. Avoid strong sunlight and sunbeds and use a sun cream higher than factor 15 until you know how your skin reacts.
• Keep your regular appointments with your doctor so your progress can be checked.
• Before having any kind of surgery, including dental and emergency treatment, tell the surgeon, dentist or doctor that you are using Ibuprofen.
• Caution: Keep the spray and foam form of Ibuprofen away from fire or naked flame as they are flammable.

Can Ibuprofen Topical cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Itching, reddening or a rash on the skin where you have used Ibuprofen Topical.

Important: If you experience unexplained bruising, skin rash or itching, swelling of the lips, mouth and throat or breathing problems stop using Ibuprofen immediately and consult your doctor or accident and emergency department of your local hospital as soon as possible.

If you experience any other worrying side effects which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your pharmacist.

How to store Ibuprofen Topical

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of them for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 22/07/2005