Ibuprofen is available both as a prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medication.
Prescription-strength
Prescription-strength ibuprofen is prescribed for symptoms caused by various forms of arthritis. Arthritis is a condition in which one or more of your joints become inflamed. The condition most commonly affects people over the age of 65 but has also been found in children, teenagers, and younger adults.
The two most common types of arthritis are:
Osteoarthritis: Normal wear and tear on a joint’s cartilage can cause osteoarthritis. Cartilage cushions the ends of bones in a joint, allowing for frictionless movement and shock absorption. After years of use and damage, this cartilage breaks down, and the bones in a joint grind directly on one another. This can limit mobility and cause significant pain.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks the soft tissue in the joints. As this tissue is destroyed, the joints become damaged. In addition to joint pain, rheumatoid arthritis may also cause fatigue, fever, and a loss of appetite.
Most symptoms of arthritis are felt in the joints. Depending on the area affected by cartilage deterioration, you might experience knee pain or back pain, for instance.
Common symptoms of arthritic conditions include:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Stiffness
- Redness in the affected area
- Loss of motion
Ibuprofen does not cure arthritis, but it can help reduce the pain and discomfort caused by these symptoms.
In addition to its use as a treatment for arthritis symptoms, prescription-strength ibuprofen may be prescribed to women to reduce pain caused by menstruation (menstrual pain).
Over the counter
OTC ibuprofen can be used to treat pain and fever symptoms caused by a wide range of conditions. Most people use it to treat discomfort caused by a fever, common cold, headache, or toothache. Women with mild menstrual pains may consider trying OTC ibuprofen before seeking a prescription for a stronger version of the drug.