TempoLife › Medicine reference › ibuprofen
Ibuprofen
Pain, inflammation and fever — for example period pain, sprains, back pain and dental pain.
General information only, not medical advice, and no doses. Read the leaflet in your pack and ask a pharmacist about your own situation, other medicines, pregnancy or any health condition.
At a glance
| Generic name | Ibuprofen |
|---|---|
| Type | Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) |
| Commonly used for | Pain, inflammation and fever — for example period pain, sprains, back pain and dental pain. |
| With food? | Best taken with or just after food to reduce the chance of stomach upset. |
| Alcohol | Drinking heavily while taking NSAIDs raises the risk of stomach irritation and bleeding. |
| Timing | With meals; use the lowest dose for the shortest time that helps. |
Food and drink
Best taken with or just after food to reduce the chance of stomach upset. Drinking heavily while taking NSAIDs raises the risk of stomach irritation and bleeding.
When to take it
With meals; use the lowest dose for the shortest time that helps.
Good to know
People with stomach ulcers, kidney problems, asthma or who take blood thinners should check with a pharmacist or doctor first. If anything about your own use is unclear, a pharmacist can advise for free.
Other common medicines
Paracetamol
Mild to moderate pain such as headache, toothache and muscle aches, and lowering a fever.
Aspirin
Pain and fever at normal doses; a low daily dose is used, only on medical advice, to reduce clotting risk.
Naproxen
Pain and inflammation, including muscle and joint pain and period pain; it is longer-acting than ibuprofen.
Omeprazole
Heartburn, acid reflux and stomach or gut ulcers.
Loratadine
Hay fever and other allergies, and itchy hives.
Cetirizine
Hay fever, allergies and hives.
Source: General medicine information paraphrased from standard patient-information-leaflet guidance. Always read the leaflet in your pack. · checked 2026-09-04
Frequently asked questions
What is Ibuprofen used for?
Pain, inflammation and fever — for example period pain, sprains, back pain and dental pain.
Can I drink alcohol with Ibuprofen?
Drinking heavily while taking NSAIDs raises the risk of stomach irritation and bleeding.
Should I take Ibuprofen with food?
Best taken with or just after food to reduce the chance of stomach upset.
See the pattern over time
TempoLife logs symptoms, food and sleep, so you can bring a clear picture to your pharmacist or doctor.