What is Ibuprofen & Paracetamol Tablets ?
- Ibuprofen:
- Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).
- It works by inhibiting enzymes (COX-1 and COX-2) that are involved in the production of substances in the body called prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are involved in the inflammatory response, and they can cause pain, swelling, and fever.
- Ibuprofen is often used to relieve mild to moderate pain, such as headaches, menstrual cramps, toothaches, muscle aches, and joint pain. It is also used to reduce fever and inflammation.
- Common brand names for Ibuprofen include Advil and Motrin.
- Paracetamol (also known as Acetaminophen in the United States):
- Paracetamol is an analgesic (pain reliever) and antipyretic (fever reducer).
- It works by blocking the production of prostaglandins in the brain. Unlike NSAIDs like Ibuprofen, it doesn’t have significant anti-inflammatory effects.
- Paracetamol is commonly used to relieve mild to moderate pain, such as headaches, muscle aches, toothaches, and pain associated with osteoarthritis. It is also used to reduce fever.
Ibuprofen & Paracetamol Tablets Tablets Uses
- Pain Relief: Ibuprofen is used to relieve mild to moderate pain. This can include headaches, dental pain, menstrual cramps, muscle aches, and pain from injuries or inflammation.
- Fever Reduction: It is effective in reducing fever, making it a common choice for treating fevers associated with various illnesses.
- Inflammation Reduction: Ibuprofen’s anti-inflammatory properties make it useful for conditions characterized by inflammation, such as arthritis or injuries causing swelling.
- Pain Relief: Paracetamol is used to relieve mild to moderate pain, similar to Ibuprofen. It can be used for headaches, dental pain, muscle aches, and pain from injuries.
- Fever Reduction: Like Ibuprofen, Paracetamol is effective in reducing fever associated with various illnesses.
- Safe for Children: It is one of the preferred pain and fever reducers for children, especially in certain age groups and dosages.
Ibuprofen & Paracetamol Tablets – Mechanism of Action and Pharmacology
Ibuprofen:
- Mechanism of Action:
- Ibuprofen is classified as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).
- It works by inhibiting the activity of enzymes known as cyclooxygenases (COX-1 and COX-2). These enzymes are involved in the production of substances called prostaglandins.
- Prostaglandins play a role in various physiological processes, including inflammation, pain perception, and fever. By inhibiting COX enzymes, Ibuprofen reduces the production of prostaglandins, leading to a reduction in pain, inflammation, and fever.
Paracetamol (Acetaminophen):
- Mechanism of Action:
- Paracetamol’s exact mechanism of action is not completely understood. It is believed to work by inhibiting a specific enzyme (COX-3) in the brain, which is different from the COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes targeted by traditional NSAIDs like Ibuprofen. COX-3 is thought to be involved in pain and fever pathways.
- Unlike NSAIDs, Paracetamol does not have significant anti-inflammatory effects.
- Pharmacology:
- Absorption: Paracetamol is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration.
- Distribution: It is distributed throughout the body, but it primarily acts in the central nervous system.
Ibuprofen & Paracetamol Tablets – Side-effect
- Upset stomach or indigestion
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Headache
- Dizziness or lightheadedness