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Ibuprofen-Acetaminophen

Pronounced

"EYE-bue-PROE-fen/a-CEET-a-MIN-oh-fen"

Common brand names:

Combogesic

Uses

This medication contains 2 ingredients: ibuprofen and acetaminophen. It is used to relieve pain from various conditions such as headache, dental pain, menstrual cramps, muscle aches, or arthritis. Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). This combination product works by blocking your body's production of certain natural substances that cause inflammation. This effect helps to decrease swelling, pain, or fever.

If you are treating a chronic condition such as arthritis, ask your doctor about non-drug treatments and/or using other medications to treat your pain. See also Warning section.

Check the ingredients on the label even if you have used the product before. The manufacturer may have changed the ingredients. Also, products with similar names may contain different ingredients meant for different purposes. Taking the wrong product could harm you.

How to Use This Medication

Read all directions on the product package before taking this medication. If your doctor has prescribed this medication, read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start using this medication and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth as directed. Take with a full glass of water (8 ounces or 240 milliliters) unless your doctor directs you otherwise. Do not lie down for at least 10 minutes after taking this medication. If stomach upset occurs while taking this medication, take it with food, milk, or an antacid.

The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. To reduce your risk of stomach bleeding and other side effects, use the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time. Do not increase your dose or take it for more than 10 days unless otherwise directed. For ongoing conditions such as arthritis, keep taking it as directed by your doctor. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor or pharmacist.

For certain conditions (such as arthritis), it may take up to 2 weeks of taking this drug regularly until you get the full benefit.

If you are taking this drug "as needed" (not on a regular schedule), remember that pain medications work best if they are used as the first signs of pain occur. If you wait until the pain has worsened, the medication may not work as well.

If your condition lasts or gets worse, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away. If you are using this product to treat yourself or a child for fever or pain, consult the doctor right away if fever gets worse or lasts more than 3 days, or if pain gets worse or lasts more than 10 days.