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Drug information

Ibuprofen

OTC
Read time: 13 mins
Last updated: 05 Dec 2019

Summary of product characteristics


1. Name of the medicinal product

Ibuprofen Seven Plus Pain Relief 200 mg/ 5ml oral suspension


2. Qualitative and quantitative composition

1 ml oral suspension contains 40 mg Ibuprofen.

Excipients: Maltitol liquid 500 mg/ml and 5.32 mg Sodium per 1 ml oral suspension.

For a full list of excipients, see section 6.1.


3. Pharmaceutical form

Oral suspension

White or off-white viscous suspension.


4.1. Therapeutic indications

Children aged 7 to 12 years

Rheumatic or muscular pain, headache, dental pain, feverishness, symptoms of cold and influenza.


4.2. Posology and method of administration

For oral administration and short-term use only.

Undesirable effects may be minimized by using the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary to control symptoms (see section 4.4).

Children 7 to 12 years

For children weighing more than 20kg, the daily dosage is 20mg/kg bodyweight in divided doses. Using the oral syringe provided, this can be achieved as follows;

7 to 9 years: 5ml up to three times in 24 hours

10 to 12 years: 7.5ml up to three times in 24 hours

Leave at least four hours between doses and do not give more than the recommended amount in any 24 hour period.

If in children aged 7 to 12 years this medicinal product is required for more than three days, or is symptoms worsen, a doctor should be consulted. This product should only be given to children who weigh more than 20kg.

Leave at least four hours between doses and do not take more than 1200mg in any 24 hour period.

Method of administration

For oral administration. The bottle should be shaken vigorously before use.

The oral suspension can be taken with food. The package includes an oral syringe for oral administration or Ibuprofen oral suspension. The oral syringe is graduated in 0.25ml steps up to 5ml. 5ml oral suspension corresponds to 200mg ibuprofen.


4.3. Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients listed in section 6.1.

Patients who have previously shown hypersensitivity reactions (e.g. asthma, rhinitis, angioedema or urticaria) in response to aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Active or history of recurrent peptic ulcer/haemorrhage (two or more distinct episodes of proven ulceration or bleeding).

History of gastrointestinal bleeding or perforation related to previous NSAIDs therapy.

Severe hepatic failure, severe renal failure or severe heart failure.

Last trimester of pregnancy (see section 4.6)

Children under seven years of age.

Children weighing less than 20kg.

Patients with rare hereditary problems of fructose intolerance should not take this medicine


4.4. Special warnings and precautions for use

Undesirable effects may be minimised by using the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary to control symptoms (see section 4.2, Gastrointestinal and cardiovascular risks below).

Elderly:

The elderly have an increased frequency of adverse reactions to NSAIDs especially gastrointestinal bleeding and perforation which may be fatal.

Respiratory:

Bronchospasm may be precipitated in patients suffering from, or with a history of, bronchial asthma or allergic disease.

Other NSAIDs:

The use of Ibuprofen Oral Suspension with concomitant NSAIDs, including cyclooxygenase-2 selective inhibitors should be avoided (see section 4.5).

SLE and mixed connective tissue disease:

Systematic lupus erythematosus and mixed connective tissue disease – increased risk of aseptic meningitis (see section 4.8)

Renal:

Renal impairment as renal function may further deteriorate (see section 4.3 and 4.8). There is a risk of renal impairment in dehydrated children and adolescents.

Hepatic:

Hepatic dysfunction (see section 4.3 and 4.8)

Cardiovascular and cerebrovascular effects

Caution (discussion with doctor or pharmacist) is required prior to starting treatment in patients with a history of hypertension and/or heart failure as fluid retention, hypertension and oedema have been reported in association with NSAID therapy.

Clinical studies suggest that use of ibuprofen, particularly at high doses (2400 mg daily) may be associated with a small increased risk of arterial thrombotic events (for example myocardial infarction or stroke). Overall, epidemiological studies do not suggest that low dose ibuprofen (e.g. ≤1200 mg daily) is associated with an increased risk of arterial thrombotic events.

Patients with uncontrolled hypertension, congestive heart failure (NYHA II-III), established ischaemic heart disease, peripheral arterial disease, and/or cerebrovascular disease should only be treated with ibuprofen after careful consideration and high doses (2400 mg/day) should be avoided.

Careful consideration should also be exercised before initiating long-term treatment of patients with risk factors for cardiovascular events (e.g. hypertension, hyperlipidaemia, diabetes mellitus, smoking), particularly if high doses of ibuprofen (2400 mg/day) are required.

Impaired female fertility:

There is limited evidence that drugs which inhibit cyclo-oxygenase/prostaglandin synthesis may cause impairment of female fertility by an effect on ovulation. This is reversible upon withdrawal of treatment.

Gastrointestinal:

NSAIDs should be given with care to patients with a history of gastrointestinal disease (ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease) as these conditions may be exacerbated (see section 4.8 – undesirable effects).

GI bleeding, ulceration or perforation, which can be fatal, has been reported with all NSAIDs at any time during treatment, with or without warning symptoms or a previous history of serious GI events.

The risk of GI bleeding, ulceration or perforation is higher with increasing NSAID doses, in patients with a history of ulcer, particularly if complicated with haemorrhage or perforation (see section 4.3), and in the elderly. These patients should commence treatment on the lowest dose available.

Patients with a history of GI toxicity, particularly when elderly, should report any unusual abdominal symptoms (especially GI bleeding) particularly in the initial stages of treatment.

Caution should be advised in patients receiving concomitant medications which could increase the risk of ulceration or bleeding, such as oral corticosteroids, anticoagulants such as warfarin, selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors or anti-platelet agents such as aspirin (see section 4.5).

When GI bleeding or ulceration occurs in patients receiving Ibuprofen Oral Suspension, the treatment should be withdrawn.

Severe Skin Reactions

Serious skin reactions, some of them fatal, including exfoliative dermatitis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, and toxic epidermal necrolysis, have been reported very rarely in association with the use of NSAIDs (see section 4.8). Patients appear to be at highest risk for these reactions early in the course of therapy: the onset of the reaction occurring in the majority of cases within the first month of treatment. Acute generalised exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP) has been reported in relation to ibuprofen-containing products. Ibuprofen Oral Suspension should be discontinued at the first appearance of skin rash, mucosal lesions, or any other sign of hypersensitivity.

Exceptionally, varicella can be at the origin of serious cutaneous and soft tissues infectious complications. To date, the contributing role of NSAIDs in the worsening of these infections cannot be ruled out. Thus, it is advisable to avoid use of ibuprofen in case of varicella (chickenpox).

Advice for patients with sugar-related disorders:

This medicinal product contains maltitol liquid. Patients with rare hereditary problems of fructose intolerance should not take this medicine.

Advice for patients on a controlled sodium diet:

This medicinal product contains 39.90 mg (1.74 mmol) of sodium per 300 mg (7.5ml) dose, equivalent to 2 % of the WHO recommended maximum daily intake of 2 g sodium for an adult.

The label will include:

Read the enclosed leaflet before taking this product.

Do not give this product if your child:

• has (or has had two or more episodes of) a stomach ulcer, perforation or bleeding

• is allergic to ibuprofen or any other ingredient of the product, aspirin or other related painkillers

• is taking other NSAID painkillers, or aspirin with a daily dose above 75mg

Speak to a pharmacist or your doctor before taking if your child:

• has or has had asthma, diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, a stroke, heart, liver, kidney or bowel problems

Do not give to children aged 7-12 years for more than 3 days.

If symptoms persist or worsen, consult your doctor.

Do not exceed the stated dose.

Not recommended for children under 7 years.


4.5. Interaction with other medicinal products and other forms of interaction

Ibuprofen should be avoided in combination with:

Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid): Concomitant administration of ibuprofen and acetylsalicylic acid is not generally recommended because of the potential of increased adverse effects.

Experimental data suggest that ibuprofen may competitively inhibit the effect of low dose aspirin on platelet aggregation when they are dosed concomitantly. However, the limitations of these data and the uncertainties regarding extrapolation of ex-vivo data to the clinical situation imply that no firm conclusions can be made for regular ibuprofen use, and no clinically relevant effect is considered to be likely for occasional ibuprofen use (see section 5.1).

Other NSAIDs including cyclooxygenase-2 selective inhibitors: Avoid concomitant use of two or more NSAIDs as this may increase the risk of adverse reactions (see section 4.4).

Ibuprofen (like other NSAIDs) should be used with caution in combination with:

Anticoagulants: NSAIDs may enhance the effects of anticoagulants, such as warfarin (see section 4.4).

Antihypertensives and diuretics: NSAIDs may diminish the effect of these drugs. Diuretics can increase the risk of nephrotoxicity of NSAIDs.

Corticosteroids: Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration or bleeding (see section 4.4).

Anti-platelet agents and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding (see section 4.4).

Cardiac glycosides: NSAIDs may exacerbate cardiac failure, reduce GFR and increase plasma glycoside levels.

Lithium: There is evidence for potential increase in plasma levels of lithium

Methotrexate: There is evidence for the potential increase in plasma levels of methotrexate.

Ciclosporin: Increased risk of nephrotoxicity.

Mifepristone: NSAIDs should not be used for 8-12 days after mifepristone administration as NSAIDs can reduce the effect of mifepristone.

Tacrolimus: Possible increased risk of nephrotoxicity when NSAIDs are given with tacrolimus.

Zidovudine: Increased risk of haematological toxicity when NSAIDs are given with zidovudine. There is evidence of an increased risk of haemarthroses and haemotoma in HIV(+) haemophiliacs receiving concurrent treatment with zidovudine.

Quinolone antibiotics: Animal data indicate that NSAIDs can increase the risk of convulsions associated with quinolone antibiotics. Patients taking NSAIDs and quinolones may have an increased risk of developing convulsions


4.6. Fertility, pregnancy and lactation

Pregnancy

Inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis may adversely affect the pregnancy and/or the embryo/foetal development.

Data from epidemiological studies suggest an increased risk of miscarriage and of cardiac malformation and gastroschisis after use of a prostaglandin synthesis inhibitor in early pregnancy. The absolute risk for cardiovascular malformation was increased from less than 1 %, up to approximately 1.5 %. The risk is believed to increase with dose and duration of therapy.

In animals, administration of a prostaglandin synthesis inhibitor has been shown to result in increased pre- and post-implantation loss and embryo-foetal lethality. In addition, increased incidences of various malformations, including cardiovascular, have been reported in animals given a prostaglandin synthesis inhibitor during the organogenetic period.

During the first and second trimester of pregnancy, Ibuprofen Oral Suspension should not be given unless clearly necessary. If Ibuprofen is used by a woman attempting to conceive, or during the first and second trimester of pregnancy, the dose should be kept as low and duration of treatment as short as possible. .

During the third trimester of pregnancy, all prostaglandin synthesis inhibitors may expose

▪ the fœtus to:

- cardiopulmonary toxicity (with premature closure of the ductus arteriosus and pulmonary hypertension);

- renal dysfunction, which may progress to renal failure with oligo-hydroamniosis;

▪ the mother and the neonate, at the end of pregnancy, to:

- possible prolongation of bleeding time, an anti-aggregating effect which may occur even at very low doses.

- inhibition of uterine contractions resulting in delayed or prolonged labour.

Consequently, Ibuprofen Oral Suspension is contraindicated during the third trimester of pregnancy (see section 4.3).

Breast-feeding

In limited studies, ibuprofen appears in the breast milk in very low concentrations and is unlikely to affect the breast-fed infant adversely.

Fertility

There is some evidence that drugs which inhibit cyclo-oxygenase/prostaglandin synthesis may cause impairment of female fertility by an effect on ovulation. This is reversible on withdrawal of treatment.


4.7. Effects on ability to drive and use machines

None expected at recommended doses and duration of therapy.


4.8. Undesirable effects

Adverse events which have been associated with Ibuprofen are given below, listed by system organ class and frequency. Frequencies are defined as: very common (≥ 1/10), common (≥ 1/100 to <1/10), uncommon (≥ 1/1000 to <1/100, rare (≥ 1/10,000 to <1/1000), very rare (<1/10,000) and not known (cannot be estimated from the available data). Within each frequency grouping, adverse events are presented in order of decreasing seriousness.

The list of the following adverse events relates to those experienced with ibuprofen at OTC doses for short term use. In the treatment of chronic conditions, under long-term treatment, additional adverse events may occur. The adverse events observed most often are gastrointestinal in nature. Adverse events are mostly dose-dependent, in particular the risk of occurrence of gastrointestinal bleeding is dependent on the dosage range and duration of treatment.

Clinical studies suggest that use of ibuprofen, particularly at a high dose (2400 mg/day) may be associated with a small increased risk of arterial thrombotic events (for example myocardial infarction or stroke), (see section 4.4).

System Organ Class

Frequency

Adverse Event

Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders

Very rare

Haematopoietic disorders (anaemia, leucopenia, thrombocytopenia, pancytopenia, agranulocytosis).

First signs are: fever, sore throat, superficial mouth ulcers, flu-like symptoms, severe exhaustion, unexplained bleeding and bruising.

Immune System Disorders

 

Uncommon

Very rare

 

 

 

 

 

 

Not Known

Hypersensitivity reactions consisting of 1:

Urticaria and pruritus

Severe hypersensitivity reactions. Symptoms could be: facial, tongue and laryngeal swelling, dyspnoea, tachycardia, hypotension, (anaphylaxis, angiodema or severe shock)

In patients with existing auto-immune disorders (such as systemic lupus erythematosus, mixed connective tissue disease) during treatment with ibuprofen, single cases of symptoms of aseptic meningitis, such as stiff neck, headache, nausea, vomiting, fever or disorientation have been observed.

Respiratory tract reactivity comprising asthma, aggravated asthma, bronchospasm or dyspnoea.

Nervous System Disorders

Uncommon

Very rare

Headache

Aseptic meningitis2.

Cardiac Disorders

Not Known

Cardiac failure and oedema

Vascular Disorders

Not Known

Hypertension

Gastrointestinal Disorders

Uncommon

Rare

Very rare

 

Not Known

Abdominal pain, nausea, dyspepsia

Diarrhoea, flatulence, constipation and vomiting

Peptic ulcer, perforation or gastrointestinal haemorrhage, melaena, haemotemesis, sometimes fatal, particularly in the elderly. Ulcerative stomatitis, gastritis.

Exacerbation of colitis and Crohn's disease (section 4.4).

Hepatobiliary Disorders

Very rare

Liver disorders

Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders

Uncommon

Very rare

 

Not Known

Various skin rashes

Severe forms of skin reactions such as bullous reactions, including Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, erythema multiforme and toxic epidermal necrolysis can occur.

Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS syndrome). Acute generalised exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP)

Renal and Urinary Disorders

Very rare

 

Not Known

Acute renal failure, papillary necrosis, especially in long-term use, associated with increased serum urea and oedema

Renal insufficiency

Investigations

Very rare

Decreased haemoglobin levels

Description of Selected Adverse Reactions

1Hypersensitivity reactions have been reported following treatment with ibuprofen. These may consist of (a) nonspecific allergic reactions and anaphylaxis, (b) respiratory tract activity comprising asthma, aggravated asthma, bronchospasm, dyspnoea or (c) assorted skin disorders, including rashes of various types pruritus, urticaria, purpura, angioedema and more rarely exfoliative and bullous dermatoses (including epidermal necrolysis and erythema multiforme).

2The pathogenic mechanism of drug-induced aseptic meningitis is not fully understood. However, the available data on NSAID-related aseptic meningitis points to a hypersensitivity reaction (due to a temporal relationship with drug intake, and disappearance of symptoms after drug discontinuation). Of note, single cases of symptoms of aseptic meningitis (such as stiff neck, headache, nausea, vomiting, fever or disorientation) have been observed during treatment with ibuprofen, in patients with existing auto-immune disorders (such as systemic lupus erythematosus, mixed connective tissue disease).

Reporting of suspected adverse reactions

Reporting suspected adverse reactions after authorisation of the medicinal product is important. It allows continued monitoring of the benefit/risk balance of the medicinal product. Healthcare professionals are asked to report any suspected adverse reactions via the Yellow Card Scheme (www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store).


4.9. Overdose

In children ingestion of more than 400mg/kg may cause symptoms. In adults the dose response effect is less clear cut. The half-life in overdose is 1.5-3 hours.

Symptoms:

Most patients who have ingested clinically important amounts of NSAIDs will develop no more than nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, or more rarely diarrhea. Tinnitus, headache and gastrointestinal bleeding are also possible. In more serious poisoning, toxicity is seen in the central nervous system, manifesting as drowsiness, occasionally excitation and disorientation or coma. Occasionally patients develop convulsions. In serious poisoning metabolic acidosis may occur and the prothrombin time/INR may be prolonged, probably due to interference with the actions of circulating clotting factors. Acute renal failure and liver damage may occur. Exacerbation of asthma is possible in asthmatics.

Management:

Management should be symptomatic and supportive and include the maintenance of a clear airway and monitoring of cardiac and vital signs until stable. Consider oral administration of activated charcoal if the patient presents within 1 hour of ingestion of a potentially toxic amount. If frequent or prolonged, convulsions should be treated with intravenous diazepam or lorazepam. Give bronchodilators for asthma.


5.1. Pharmacodynamic properties

Pharmacotherapeutic group: Anti-inflammatory and anti-rheumatic products, non-steroids; Propionic acid derivatives

ATC code: M01AE01

Ibuprofen is a propionic acid derivative NSAID that has demonstrated its efficacy by inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis. In humans, ibuprofen reduces inflammatory pain, swellings and fever. Furthermore, ibuprofen reversibly inhibits platelet aggregation.

Experimental data suggest that ibuprofen may competitively inhibit the effect of low dose aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) on platelet aggregation when they are dosed concomitantly. Some pharmacodynamics studies show that when single doses of ibuprofen 400mg were taken within 8 hours before or within 30 minutes after immediate release aspirin dosing (81mg), a decreased effect of acetylsalicylic acid on the formation of thromboxane or platelet aggregation occurred. However, the limitation of these data and the uncertainties regarding extrapolation of ex vivo data to the clinical situation imply that no firm conclusions can be made for regular ibuprofen use and no clinically relevant effect is considered to be likely for occasional ibuprofen use (see section 4.5).


5.2. Pharmacokinetic properties

Ibuprofen is rapidly absorbed following administration and is rapidly distributed throughout the whole body. The excretion is rapid and complete via the kidneys.

Maximum plasma concentrations are reached 45 minutes after ingestion if taken on an empty stomach. When taken with food, peak levels are observed after 1 to 2 hours. These times may vary with different dosage forms.

Elimination half-life is approximately 2 hours.

In limited studies, ibuprofen appears in the breast milk in very low concentrations.


5.3. Preclinical safety data

The subchronic and chronic toxicity of ibuprofen in animal experiments showed up mainly in form of lesions and ulcerations in the gastro-intestinal tract.

In vitro and in vivo studies gave no clinically relevant evidence of a mutagenic potential of ibuprofen. In studies in rats and mice no evidence of carcinogenic effects of ibuprofen was found.

Ibuprofen inhibited ovulation in rabbits and impaired implantation in various animal species (rabbit, rat, mouse). Experimental studies in rat and rabbit have shown that ibuprofen crosses the placenta. Following administration of maternotoxic doses, an increased incidence of malformations (ventricular septal defects) occurred in the progeny of rats.

The active substance ibuprofen shows an environmental risk for fish.


6.1. List of excipients

Sodium benzoate (E211),

Citric acid anhydrous,

Sodium citrate,

Saccharin sodium,

Sodium chloride,

Hypromellose,

Xanthan gum,

Maltitol liquid,

Glycerol (E422),

Thaumatin (E957),

Strawberry flavour (natural flavouring preparations, maize maltodextrin, triethyl citrate (E-1505), propylene glycol (E-1520) and benzyl alcohol),

Purified water.


6.2. Incompatibilities

Not applicable


6.3. Shelf life

3 years

After first opening: 6 months


6.4. Special precautions for storage

This medicinal product does not require any special storage conditions.


6.5. Nature and contents of container

Amber coloured polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles of 30 ml, 100 ml, with a child-resistant closure, fitted with a low-density polyethylene stopper.

The product is supplied with a 5ml oral syringe, comprising of a high-density polyethylene piston and a polypropylene barrel.

The oral syringe is graduated in 0.25ml steps up to 5ml.

Not all pack-sizes may be marketed.


6.6. Special precautions for disposal and other handling

Any unused medicinal product or waste material should be disposed of in accordance with local requirements.

No special requirements


7. Marketing authorisation holder

Aspire Pharma Ltd

Unit 4 Rotherbrook Court

Bedford Road

Petersfield

Hampshire

GU32 3QG

United Kingdom


8. Marketing authorisation number(s)

PL35533/0056


9. Date of first authorisation/renewal of the authorisation

21/12/2017


10. Date of revision of the text

03/12/2019

4.1 Therapeutic indications

Children aged 7 to 12 years

Rheumatic or muscular pain, headache, dental pain, feverishness, symptoms of cold and influenza.

4.2 Posology and method of administration

For oral administration and short-term use only.

Undesirable effects may be minimized by using the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary to control symptoms (see section 4.4).

Children 7 to 12 years

For children weighing more than 20kg, the daily dosage is 20mg/kg bodyweight in divided doses. Using the oral syringe provided, this can be achieved as follows;

7 to 9 years: 5ml up to three times in 24 hours

10 to 12 years: 7.5ml up to three times in 24 hours

Leave at least four hours between doses and do not give more than the recommended amount in any 24 hour period.

If in children aged 7 to 12 years this medicinal product is required for more than three days, or is symptoms worsen, a doctor should be consulted. This product should only be given to children who weigh more than 20kg.

Leave at least four hours between doses and do not take more than 1200mg in any 24 hour period.

Method of administration

For oral administration. The bottle should be shaken vigorously before use.

The oral suspension can be taken with food. The package includes an oral syringe for oral administration or Ibuprofen oral suspension. The oral syringe is graduated in 0.25ml steps up to 5ml. 5ml oral suspension corresponds to 200mg ibuprofen.

4.3 Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients listed in section 6.1.

Patients who have previously shown hypersensitivity reactions (e.g. asthma, rhinitis, angioedema or urticaria) in response to aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Active or history of recurrent peptic ulcer/haemorrhage (two or more distinct episodes of proven ulceration or bleeding).

History of gastrointestinal bleeding or perforation related to previous NSAIDs therapy.

Severe hepatic failure, severe renal failure or severe heart failure.

Last trimester of pregnancy (see section 4.6)

Children under seven years of age.

Children weighing less than 20kg.

Patients with rare hereditary problems of fructose intolerance should not take this medicine

4.4 Special warnings and precautions for use

Undesirable effects may be minimised by using the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary to control symptoms (see section 4.2, Gastrointestinal and cardiovascular risks below).

Elderly:

The elderly have an increased frequency of adverse reactions to NSAIDs especially gastrointestinal bleeding and perforation which may be fatal.

Respiratory:

Bronchospasm may be precipitated in patients suffering from, or with a history of, bronchial asthma or allergic disease.

Other NSAIDs:

The use of Ibuprofen Oral Suspension with concomitant NSAIDs, including cyclooxygenase-2 selective inhibitors should be avoided (see section 4.5).

SLE and mixed connective tissue disease:

Systematic lupus erythematosus and mixed connective tissue disease – increased risk of aseptic meningitis (see section 4.8)

Renal:

Renal impairment as renal function may further deteriorate (see section 4.3 and 4.8). There is a risk of renal impairment in dehydrated children and adolescents.

Hepatic:

Hepatic dysfunction (see section 4.3 and 4.8)

Cardiovascular and cerebrovascular effects

Caution (discussion with doctor or pharmacist) is required prior to starting treatment in patients with a history of hypertension and/or heart failure as fluid retention, hypertension and oedema have been reported in association with NSAID therapy.

Clinical studies suggest that use of ibuprofen, particularly at high doses (2400 mg daily) may be associated with a small increased risk of arterial thrombotic events (for example myocardial infarction or stroke). Overall, epidemiological studies do not suggest that low dose ibuprofen (e.g. ≤1200 mg daily) is associated with an increased risk of arterial thrombotic events.

Patients with uncontrolled hypertension, congestive heart failure (NYHA II-III), established ischaemic heart disease, peripheral arterial disease, and/or cerebrovascular disease should only be treated with ibuprofen after careful consideration and high doses (2400 mg/day) should be avoided.

Careful consideration should also be exercised before initiating long-term treatment of patients with risk factors for cardiovascular events (e.g. hypertension, hyperlipidaemia, diabetes mellitus, smoking), particularly if high doses of ibuprofen (2400 mg/day) are required.

Impaired female fertility:

There is limited evidence that drugs which inhibit cyclo-oxygenase/prostaglandin synthesis may cause impairment of female fertility by an effect on ovulation. This is reversible upon withdrawal of treatment.

Gastrointestinal:

NSAIDs should be given with care to patients with a history of gastrointestinal disease (ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease) as these conditions may be exacerbated (see section 4.8 – undesirable effects).

GI bleeding, ulceration or perforation, which can be fatal, has been reported with all NSAIDs at any time during treatment, with or without warning symptoms or a previous history of serious GI events.

The risk of GI bleeding, ulceration or perforation is higher with increasing NSAID doses, in patients with a history of ulcer, particularly if complicated with haemorrhage or perforation (see section 4.3), and in the elderly. These patients should commence treatment on the lowest dose available.

Patients with a history of GI toxicity, particularly when elderly, should report any unusual abdominal symptoms (especially GI bleeding) particularly in the initial stages of treatment.

Caution should be advised in patients receiving concomitant medications which could increase the risk of ulceration or bleeding, such as oral corticosteroids, anticoagulants such as warfarin, selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors or anti-platelet agents such as aspirin (see section 4.5).

When GI bleeding or ulceration occurs in patients receiving Ibuprofen Oral Suspension, the treatment should be withdrawn.

Severe Skin Reactions

Serious skin reactions, some of them fatal, including exfoliative dermatitis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, and toxic epidermal necrolysis, have been reported very rarely in association with the use of NSAIDs (see section 4.8). Patients appear to be at highest risk for these reactions early in the course of therapy: the onset of the reaction occurring in the majority of cases within the first month of treatment. Acute generalised exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP) has been reported in relation to ibuprofen-containing products. Ibuprofen Oral Suspension should be discontinued at the first appearance of skin rash, mucosal lesions, or any other sign of hypersensitivity.

Exceptionally, varicella can be at the origin of serious cutaneous and soft tissues infectious complications. To date, the contributing role of NSAIDs in the worsening of these infections cannot be ruled out. Thus, it is advisable to avoid use of ibuprofen in case of varicella (chickenpox).

Advice for patients with sugar-related disorders:

This medicinal product contains maltitol liquid. Patients with rare hereditary problems of fructose intolerance should not take this medicine.

Advice for patients on a controlled sodium diet:

This medicinal product contains 39.90 mg (1.74 mmol) of sodium per 300 mg (7.5ml) dose, equivalent to 2 % of the WHO recommended maximum daily intake of 2 g sodium for an adult.

The label will include:

Read the enclosed leaflet before taking this product.

Do not give this product if your child:

• has (or has had two or more episodes of) a stomach ulcer, perforation or bleeding

• is allergic to ibuprofen or any other ingredient of the product, aspirin or other related painkillers

• is taking other NSAID painkillers, or aspirin with a daily dose above 75mg

Speak to a pharmacist or your doctor before taking if your child:

• has or has had asthma, diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, a stroke, heart, liver, kidney or bowel problems

Do not give to children aged 7-12 years for more than 3 days.

If symptoms persist or worsen, consult your doctor.

Do not exceed the stated dose.

Not recommended for children under 7 years.

4.5 Interaction with other medicinal products and other forms of interaction

Ibuprofen should be avoided in combination with:

Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid): Concomitant administration of ibuprofen and acetylsalicylic acid is not generally recommended because of the potential of increased adverse effects.

Experimental data suggest that ibuprofen may competitively inhibit the effect of low dose aspirin on platelet aggregation when they are dosed concomitantly. However, the limitations of these data and the uncertainties regarding extrapolation of ex-vivo data to the clinical situation imply that no firm conclusions can be made for regular ibuprofen use, and no clinically relevant effect is considered to be likely for occasional ibuprofen use (see section 5.1).

Other NSAIDs including cyclooxygenase-2 selective inhibitors: Avoid concomitant use of two or more NSAIDs as this may increase the risk of adverse reactions (see section 4.4).

Ibuprofen (like other NSAIDs) should be used with caution in combination with:

Anticoagulants: NSAIDs may enhance the effects of anticoagulants, such as warfarin (see section 4.4).

Antihypertensives and diuretics: NSAIDs may diminish the effect of these drugs. Diuretics can increase the risk of nephrotoxicity of NSAIDs.

Corticosteroids: Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration or bleeding (see section 4.4).

Anti-platelet agents and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding (see section 4.4).

Cardiac glycosides: NSAIDs may exacerbate cardiac failure, reduce GFR and increase plasma glycoside levels.

Lithium: There is evidence for potential increase in plasma levels of lithium

Methotrexate: There is evidence for the potential increase in plasma levels of methotrexate.

Ciclosporin: Increased risk of nephrotoxicity.

Mifepristone: NSAIDs should not be used for 8-12 days after mifepristone administration as NSAIDs can reduce the effect of mifepristone.

Tacrolimus: Possible increased risk of nephrotoxicity when NSAIDs are given with tacrolimus.

Zidovudine: Increased risk of haematological toxicity when NSAIDs are given with zidovudine. There is evidence of an increased risk of haemarthroses and haemotoma in HIV(+) haemophiliacs receiving concurrent treatment with zidovudine.

Quinolone antibiotics: Animal data indicate that NSAIDs can increase the risk of convulsions associated with quinolone antibiotics. Patients taking NSAIDs and quinolones may have an increased risk of developing convulsions

4.6 Fertility, pregnancy and lactation

Pregnancy

Inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis may adversely affect the pregnancy and/or the embryo/foetal development.

Data from epidemiological studies suggest an increased risk of miscarriage and of cardiac malformation and gastroschisis after use of a prostaglandin synthesis inhibitor in early pregnancy. The absolute risk for cardiovascular malformation was increased from less than 1 %, up to approximately 1.5 %. The risk is believed to increase with dose and duration of therapy.

In animals, administration of a prostaglandin synthesis inhibitor has been shown to result in increased pre- and post-implantation loss and embryo-foetal lethality. In addition, increased incidences of various malformations, including cardiovascular, have been reported in animals given a prostaglandin synthesis inhibitor during the organogenetic period.

During the first and second trimester of pregnancy, Ibuprofen Oral Suspension should not be given unless clearly necessary. If Ibuprofen is used by a woman attempting to conceive, or during the first and second trimester of pregnancy, the dose should be kept as low and duration of treatment as short as possible. .

During the third trimester of pregnancy, all prostaglandin synthesis inhibitors may expose

▪ the fœtus to:

- cardiopulmonary toxicity (with premature closure of the ductus arteriosus and pulmonary hypertension);

- renal dysfunction, which may progress to renal failure with oligo-hydroamniosis;

▪ the mother and the neonate, at the end of pregnancy, to:

- possible prolongation of bleeding time, an anti-aggregating effect which may occur even at very low doses.

- inhibition of uterine contractions resulting in delayed or prolonged labour.

Consequently, Ibuprofen Oral Suspension is contraindicated during the third trimester of pregnancy (see section 4.3).

Breast-feeding

In limited studies, ibuprofen appears in the breast milk in very low concentrations and is unlikely to affect the breast-fed infant adversely.

Fertility

There is some evidence that drugs which inhibit cyclo-oxygenase/prostaglandin synthesis may cause impairment of female fertility by an effect on ovulation. This is reversible on withdrawal of treatment.

4.7 Effects on ability to drive and use machines

None expected at recommended doses and duration of therapy.

4.8 Undesirable effects

Adverse events which have been associated with Ibuprofen are given below, listed by system organ class and frequency. Frequencies are defined as: very common (≥ 1/10), common (≥ 1/100 to <1/10), uncommon (≥ 1/1000 to <1/100, rare (≥ 1/10,000 to <1/1000), very rare (<1/10,000) and not known (cannot be estimated from the available data). Within each frequency grouping, adverse events are presented in order of decreasing seriousness.

The list of the following adverse events relates to those experienced with ibuprofen at OTC doses for short term use. In the treatment of chronic conditions, under long-term treatment, additional adverse events may occur. The adverse events observed most often are gastrointestinal in nature. Adverse events are mostly dose-dependent, in particular the risk of occurrence of gastrointestinal bleeding is dependent on the dosage range and duration of treatment.

Clinical studies suggest that use of ibuprofen, particularly at a high dose (2400 mg/day) may be associated with a small increased risk of arterial thrombotic events (for example myocardial infarction or stroke), (see section 4.4).

System Organ Class

Frequency

Adverse Event

Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders

Very rare

Haematopoietic disorders (anaemia, leucopenia, thrombocytopenia, pancytopenia, agranulocytosis).

First signs are: fever, sore throat, superficial mouth ulcers, flu-like symptoms, severe exhaustion, unexplained bleeding and bruising.

Immune System Disorders

 

Uncommon

Very rare

 

 

 

 

 

 

Not Known

Hypersensitivity reactions consisting of 1:

Urticaria and pruritus

Severe hypersensitivity reactions. Symptoms could be: facial, tongue and laryngeal swelling, dyspnoea, tachycardia, hypotension, (anaphylaxis, angiodema or severe shock)

In patients with existing auto-immune disorders (such as systemic lupus erythematosus, mixed connective tissue disease) during treatment with ibuprofen, single cases of symptoms of aseptic meningitis, such as stiff neck, headache, nausea, vomiting, fever or disorientation have been observed.

Respiratory tract reactivity comprising asthma, aggravated asthma, bronchospasm or dyspnoea.

Nervous System Disorders

Uncommon

Very rare

Headache

Aseptic meningitis2.

Cardiac Disorders

Not Known

Cardiac failure and oedema

Vascular Disorders

Not Known

Hypertension

Gastrointestinal Disorders

Uncommon

Rare

Very rare

 

Not Known

Abdominal pain, nausea, dyspepsia

Diarrhoea, flatulence, constipation and vomiting

Peptic ulcer, perforation or gastrointestinal haemorrhage, melaena, haemotemesis, sometimes fatal, particularly in the elderly. Ulcerative stomatitis, gastritis.

Exacerbation of colitis and Crohn's disease (section 4.4).

Hepatobiliary Disorders

Very rare

Liver disorders

Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders

Uncommon

Very rare

 

Not Known

Various skin rashes

Severe forms of skin reactions such as bullous reactions, including Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, erythema multiforme and toxic epidermal necrolysis can occur.

Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS syndrome). Acute generalised exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP)

Renal and Urinary Disorders

Very rare

 

Not Known

Acute renal failure, papillary necrosis, especially in long-term use, associated with increased serum urea and oedema

Renal insufficiency

Investigations

Very rare

Decreased haemoglobin levels

Description of Selected Adverse Reactions

1Hypersensitivity reactions have been reported following treatment with ibuprofen. These may consist of (a) nonspecific allergic reactions and anaphylaxis, (b) respiratory tract activity comprising asthma, aggravated asthma, bronchospasm, dyspnoea or (c) assorted skin disorders, including rashes of various types pruritus, urticaria, purpura, angioedema and more rarely exfoliative and bullous dermatoses (including epidermal necrolysis and erythema multiforme).

2The pathogenic mechanism of drug-induced aseptic meningitis is not fully understood. However, the available data on NSAID-related aseptic meningitis points to a hypersensitivity reaction (due to a temporal relationship with drug intake, and disappearance of symptoms after drug discontinuation). Of note, single cases of symptoms of aseptic meningitis (such as stiff neck, headache, nausea, vomiting, fever or disorientation) have been observed during treatment with ibuprofen, in patients with existing auto-immune disorders (such as systemic lupus erythematosus, mixed connective tissue disease).

Reporting of suspected adverse reactions

Reporting suspected adverse reactions after authorisation of the medicinal product is important. It allows continued monitoring of the benefit/risk balance of the medicinal product. Healthcare professionals are asked to report any suspected adverse reactions via the Yellow Card Scheme (www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store).

Learning Zones

The Learning Zones are an educational resource for healthcare professionals that provide medical information on the epidemiology, pathophysiology and burden of disease, as well as diagnostic techniques and treatment regimens.

 

 

Disclaimer

The drug SPC information (indications, contra-indications, interactions, etc), has been developed in collaboration with eMC (www.medicines.org.uk/emc/). Medthority offers the whole library of SPC documents from eMC.

Medthority will not be held liable for explicit or implicit errors, or missing data.

Reporting of suspected adverse reactions 

Drug Licencing

Drugs appearing in this section are approved by UK Medicines & Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), & the European Medicines Agency (EMA).