Ibuprofen is a painkiller that is part of the group of drugs known as NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Ibuprofen not only relieves pain, but also has a fever-reducing and anti-inflammatory effect.
Ibuprofen is prescribed for, amongst other things, headaches, migraines, arthrosis (worn joints), muscle pain, menstrual complaints and flu. It is also prescribed to treat joint inflammation, in people suffering from gout, rheumatism or Bechterew’s disease, for example.
Ibuprofen and the benefit of DNA analysis
The rate at which ibuprofen is processed within your body varies from one individual to another. This means that the efficacy and side effects of ibuprofen can be predicted to some extent on the basis of your genes.
Preventive DNA analysis can therefore be an important tool in optimising your medication.
Ibuprofen and the enzyme CYP2C9
Ibuprofen is processed to a large extent by the enzyme CYP2C9 (and to a lesser extent by the enzymes CYP2C8, CYP2C19 en CYP3A4). The activity of this enzyme can vary considerably depending on your genetic predisposition, which means the efficacy of ibuprofen can also differ from person to person, as can the risk of side effects.
Information about your genetic predisposition may therefore provide grounds for extra vigilance in relation to ibuprofen.
In addition to your genetic predisposition, (non-genetic) hypersensitivity reactions can occur in rare cases. This is called NSAID intolerance.
Read more about CYP2C9 enzyme »
Also known as
Zafen, Nurofen, Brufen, Advil Reliva, Spidifen, Advil, Dolofin, Ibruphar, Motrin, Nuprin, Actiprofen, Addaprin, A-G Profen, Aktren, Algifor, Alges-X, Arthrofen, Brufen Retard, Bufen, Buplex, Burana, Caldolor, Calprofen, Cap-Profen, Dismenol, Dolgit, Dolofort, Dolormin, Dolo-Spedifen, Ebufac, Fenbid, Fenpaed, Feverfen, Galprofen, Genpril, Haltran, Ibugel, IbuHEXAL, Ibumetin, Ibuprofene, Ibuprom, Ibuprox, Ibux, Rimafen