Motrin (Ibuprofen) for Lupus

Overview
Motrin is an over-the-counter medication used to treat pain, fever, and inflammation. Stronger doses of Motrin are available by prescription. Motrin is used to treat pain, stiffness and discomfort caused by lupus in joints and other tissues.

Motrin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). NSAIDs help reduce fever, pain and inflammation. Motrin is believed to work by inhibiting the production of chemicals that promote inflammation and blood clot formation in the body.

How do I take it?
Always check with your doctor before taking a new medication, including over-the-counter medications.

Take Motrin according to directions given by your doctor or found on the medication package. Do not exceed the recommended dosage. When taking NSAIDs, it is important to use the lowest dose that is effective, and to take it for the shortest amount of time in order to avoid side effects.

Taking Motrin with food or after meals may help avoid gastrointestinal side effects.

People with lupus who take NSAIDs regularly should have their kidney function tested every three or four months.

Side effects
In people with lupus, Motrin may cause severe headache, stiff neck, fever and confusion. This condition is known as aseptic meningitis.

In people with lupus nephritis, Motrin may exacerbate kidney problems.

Motrin may increase the risk of stroke, heart attack, and serious gastrointestinal injury including perforation.

Common side effects of Motrin include abdominal pain and cramps, gastrointestinal ulcerations, bleeding, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, and nausea.

For answers to frequently asked questions about exposure to Ibuprofen during pregnancy and breastfeeding, visit the experts at MothertoBaby.org.