Is ibuprofen an anti-inflammatory drug?
Sep 10, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Common dosage forms of ibuprofen include tablets and capsules. Generally, ibuprofen belongs to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), not traditional anti-inflammatory drugs. When using ibuprofen, care should be taken not to take it for prolonged periods or in excessive doses to avoid adverse reactions such as gastrointestinal discomfort and liver or kidney function damage. It is contraindicated for individuals allergic to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Common formulations of ibuprofen include tablets and capsules. Generally, ibuprofen belongs to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), rather than being an anti-inflammatory drug in the traditional sense. Detailed explanation is as follows:
Although ibuprofen belongs to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and possesses anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic effects, it is not a traditional anti-inflammatory drug. Traditional anti-inflammatory drugs primarily target inflammation caused by bacterial infections, eliminating or inhibiting bacteria to address the inflammation at its source. In contrast, ibuprofen does not directly act on bacteria. Instead, it alleviates inflammatory responses by inhibiting the synthesis of inflammatory mediators such as prostaglandins, thereby relieving symptoms like redness, swelling, and pain, but cannot eradicate the pathogens, such as bacteria, that cause the inflammation. Therefore, it is not considered a traditional anti-inflammatory drug.
When using ibuprofen, care should be taken not to take it long-term or in excessive doses to avoid adverse reactions such as gastrointestinal discomfort and liver or kidney dysfunction. It is contraindicated in individuals allergic to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Patients with underlying conditions such as gastrointestinal disease or cardiovascular disease should use it under a doctor's guidance.
