Contraindications of *Motrin*

Contraindications of Motrin

Motrin is a non-steroidal drug that is used as an anti-inflamatory (NSAID).  The active ingredient in Motrin is ibuprofen.  This chemical works to reduce inflamation by targeting the hormones that influence swelling and pain.  In addition to being an anti-inflamatory, it is also a fever reducer.  It is effective in relieving the discomfort of toothaches, headaches, back pain, arthritis, cramps due to menstruation, and pain due to injury.  There are other uses for ibuprofen that are not listed here, but are related in nature.

Motrin and other ibuprofen based medications also have negative effects because of allergy or side-effects.  It is vital that someone consult their physician or health care professional before taking any medications.  This will not only assure you that it is safe for you to take the medicine, but will also inform your doctor that you are using it.

Allergic reactions

• Rash/hives
• Itching
• difficulty breathing or tight chest
• swelling of mouth, face, lips, or tongue
• Black or bloody stools
• Blurred vision
• Dark urine
• Red, swollen, blistering or peeling skin

Side effects and contraindications

• Can increase the risk of heart problems, including heart attack
• Can increase teh risk of circulatory problems, including stroke
• Chest pain
• Weakness
• Breathiness
• Speaking becomes slurred
• Balace is "off"
• Vision problems begin
• Stomach and intestine problems including perforation (a hole forms in the lining)
• Anxiety
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Increased risk of infection

How to take Ibuprofen

• Ibuprofen comes in several strengths.  Do not take a strength higher than is necessary to relieve symptoms.
• Ensure that you are not taking more medications that may also contain ibuprofen as overdose may occur
• Take with food or milk

Consult your physician if...

• If you do not gain relief from symptoms within 24 hours
• If you continue to feel pain after taking the recommended dosage
• If you experience swelling or redness in painful area
• If you begin to experience new symptoms

Personal attributes that would require consultation

• History of heart or circulatory problems including clots
• Stomach ulcers
• Asthma
• Nasal polyps
• Kidney or liver disease
• Smoking
• If you are pregnant

Pregnancy

There is not enough research being done to date on the effects of ibuprofen on an unborn fetus.  With this in mind do not take unless instructed by a physician.  Instead of taking a pain reliever try holistic methods of solving your pain.  An ice pack adminstered to the affected area will reduce the swelling and relieve pain.  This can be done for headaches or other body aches.  Backache during pregnancy can be relieved with a heating pad on low heat.  Do not create too much heat on the fetus because this can cause premature labor.

Conclusion

Although ibuprofen is safe and effective for most individuals one must be aware of the repercussions to their personal well being if they do not heed the symptoms of adverse side effects that may occur while consistently using this NSAID.  Only use the medicine for as long as needed and then stop until you have the need again.  It is not advisable to continue to use this medicine on a regular on-going basis because of the effects it may have on the cardio and circulatory systems.

Disclaimer

Of course this is not an all-inclusive list of indications and effects of Motrin or other ibuprofen based medications.  For more answers to your questions you can contact the FDA or your local poison control center.