Ibuprofen (Nurofen, Caldolor)

Last updated 05/12/15

Definition

• Non-selective COX inhibitor NSAID

Features

• Reduces opiate requirements

Mechanism

• Prostaglandin synthetase inhibition
• Analgesic
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antipyretic

Indications

• Pain
• IV
• Mild to moderate post operative pain
• Fever reduction

Dose

• PO, IV
• IV formulation (Caldolor) is new in 2015
• PO
• Adult: 200-400mg PO Q6-8h
• Max: 800mg PO Q6h
• Paeds (6 months to 11yrs): 10mg/kg PO Q6-8h
• IV
• Ampules 100mg/ml: 400mg in 4ml or 800mg in 8ml
• Clear colorless to slightly yellow solution
• Infuse over 30 minutes
• Must be diluted: NS or 5% Dextrose
• Maximum concentration 4mg/ml
• 400mg dose = 100ml minimum total volume for dilution
• 800mg dose = 200ml minimum total volume for dilution
• If not diluted may cause haemolysis
• Adult: 400-800mg Q6h IV
• Max: 3200mg/day for 2 days
• Not indicated for children <18yrs

Contraindications

• Asthma sensitive to NSAIDs
• IV
• CABG post operative pain
• Active gastrointestinal bleeding
• Spinal cord injuries
• Pregnancy: Category C

Side Effects

• Nausea, Vomiting
• Headache
• Hypertension
• Anaphylaxis
• Gastrointstinal bleed
• Cardiovascular thrombotic event
• Congestiver Cardiac Failure (CCF)

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References

BioCSL: Caldolor Product Information