Ibuprofen is commonly used to reduce fever and to treat pain and inflammation caused by several conditions, including arthritis, menstrual cramps, headache, muscle pain, back pain, and tooth pain. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve) help relieve pain by blocking prostaglandins, which sensitize nerve endings during inflammation. Ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin), naproxen (Aleve) and aspirin (Bayer or Ecotrin) are common pain relievers that belong to a class of medication called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Key takeaways While ibuprofen can help manage arthritis pain by reducing inflammation, it is generally not recommended to take it daily for more than a few days without consulting a doctor. Ibuprofen is one of a group of drugs called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It’s available over the counter as tablets or capsules in doses of 200–400 mg and can be taken up to three times a day after food. Some tablets are designed to release the drug slowly over a period of time, and some people find these helpful for night-time pain relief. Higher doses of ibuprofen are. Nonprescription ibuprofen is used to reduce fever and to relieve minor aches and pain from headaches, muscle aches, arthritis, menstrual periods, the common cold, toothaches, and backaches. Ibuprofen is in a class of medications called NSAIDs. It works by stopping the body's production of a substance that causes pain, fever, and inflammation. Ibuprofen is a pain medicine used to manage mild to moderate pain, fever, inflammation, menstrual cramps, and types of arthritis. Common side effects are drowsiness, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and ringing in the ears. Ibuprofen is an NSAID, which can cause stomach ulcers in some people. It also interacts with many other drugs. The second most prescribed and dispensed pain medication is ibuprofen, the generic form of brand name medications Advil or Motrin. This nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug can be used for a variety of conditions, including headaches, muscle aches, arthritis, dental pain, and menstrual cramps. Detailed Ibuprofen dosage information for adults and children. Includes dosages for Pain, Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis and more; plus renal, liver and dialysis adjustments. Have a headache or a pulled muscle? Odds are over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers like ibuprofen, aspirin, or acetaminophen will do the trick.