Ibuprofen Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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ibuprofen
[aɪˈbjuː.pə.fɛn ]
Definition
medication pain
Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly used to relieve pain, decrease inflammation, and lower fever. It works by inhibiting the production of certain chemicals in the body that cause inflammation and pain. Ibuprofen is often used to treat various conditions, such as headaches, muscle aches, arthritis, and menstrual cramps. It is available over the counter in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquid suspensions.
Synonyms
advil, anti-inflammatory, motrin, pain reliever.
Examples of usage
- I took ibuprofen for my headache.
- Ibuprofen can help reduce inflammation after an injury.
- He prefers ibuprofen over acetaminophen for muscle pain.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
History
- Ibuprofen was developed by Dr. Stewart Adams and his team in the UK during the 1960s as a less addictive alternative to aspirin.
- It was first approved for use in the United States in 1974, quickly becoming a popular over-the-counter medication.
Science
- Ibuprofen works by inhibiting enzymes responsible for producing prostaglandins, chemicals that cause pain and inflammation.
- It is classified as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), which means it can help reduce inflammation without steroids.
Cultural Impact
- Popular culture often features ibuprofen as a go-to remedy for hangovers and post-party fatigue.
- In numerous movies and TV shows, characters reference ibuprofen humorously when dealing with headaches from overindulgence.
Health & Safety
- Though commonly used, overusing ibuprofen can lead to stomach issues or kidney damage, making proper dosage essential.
- It’s advised not to mix ibuprofen with certain medications, like blood thinners, highlighting the importance of consulting with a doctor.
Origin of 'ibuprofen'
Main points about word origin
- The name comes from the chemical structure: iso-butyl-propanoic-phenolic acid.
- Originally discovered in the 1960s, the name reflects its components in medical chemistry.
The term 'ibuprofen' was coined from 'iso-butyl', 'propionic', and 'fenamic', the latter part being derived from 'fenamic acid'. It was originally developed in the 1960s in the United Kingdom by Dr. Stewart Adams and his colleagues at Boots Pure Drug Company. The first clinical trials took place in 1961, and ibuprofen was introduced as a prescription medication in the UK in 1969. It became available over the counter in the early 1980s. After getting approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 1974, it rapidly gained popularity due to its effectiveness and relatively good safety profile. Its availability in various forms, including liquid and chewable tablets, has made it a commonly used medication worldwide.