An Evaluation of the Safe and Effective Use of Over-the-counter (OTC) Ibuprofen from Community Pharmacies: A Systematic Review on Adverse Drug Reporting

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is available over the counter (OTC) in community pharmacies and supermarkets for use as a painkiller to relieve symptoms of pain and inflammation.

Aims/Objectives This review is aims to evaluate the need to report adverse drug reactions (ADRs) and It evaluates the reporting of adverse drug events occurring in community pharmacy services, investigating customers’ experiences of using ibuprofen as an OTC medication.

Methods For this research, eligible papers, those published in English between 2010 and February 2020, were identified in relation to the study questions. The databases search included MEDLINE, EMBASE, PubMed and Google Scholar, using the search terms: ‘ibuprofen’, ‘adverse events’ and ‘pharmacies’.

Results A total of three studies were identified: Christensen et al., 2010; Moore et al., 2015; and Mullan et al., 2016. However, no serious adverse events were reported for any of the participants. Instead, ibuprofen proved to be a good choice of painkiller with few side effects. Community pharmacies were also found to be suitable service providers, encouraging customers to record any adverse events. Overall, low doses of ibuprofen were considered to be more effective than high doses.

Conclusion This study highlights common side effects of ibuprofen as well as its effective use, safety and ADRs. The knowledge and practice concerning its use in community pharmacies is also discussed. Reliable evidence of the efficacy and safety of ibuprofen is widely available. In general, fewer adverse events were reported for ibuprofen combined with paracetamol or caffeine.