
Science in 1 minute: how does ibuprofen work? Play The antipyretic effects of ibuprofen may arise as a result of its action on the hypothalamus that subsequently leads to vasodilation, an increased peripheral blood flow, and subsequent heat dissipation. The prostaglandins that are formed from PGH2 are important mediators of sensations, such as pain, and inflammatory processes, such as fever and inflammation. The inhibition of COX by ibuprofen, therefore, lowers the level of prostaglandins made by the body. PGH2 is then converted to prostaglandins. COX is needed to convert arachidonic acid to prostaglandin H2 (PGH2) in the body. Ibuprofen is a non-selective inhibitor of an enzyme called cyclooxygenase (COX), which is required for the synthesis of prostaglandins via the arachidonic acid pathway. Other effects of the inflammatory process can also be too powerful and lead to more harm than good. For example, pain may be ongoing long after a person is aware of the trauma. However, these effects can fail to confer a benefit in the long term. The effects of inflammation are potentially beneficial, with pain alerting a person to the problem, swelling helping to prevent movement of a joint, and increased blood flow to aid in healing. The accumulation of white blood cells at the site of injury leads to pain, swelling, heat, redness, fever, and pain, which are together referred to as inflammation. Inflammation occurs when the body’s protective mechanisms are triggered in response to injury. Image Credit: Kelly vanDellen / Inflammation In vivo studies show that the R-enantiomer is converted to the S-enantiomer, which is thought to be the more pharmacologically active enantiomer. Prostaglandins are sometimes referred to as local mediators because they carry out important functions near the location in which they were produced, rather than throughout the body. These symptoms arise when the body releases chemicals called prostaglandins. Taken together, these drugs are all pain relievers that are used in the management of mild to moderate pain, inflammation, and fever.

Other examples of drugs in this class include aspirin and diclofenac.

Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).
