Ibuprofen is a widely used painkiller available over the counter. Developed during the 1960s, it has been marketed under a number of trade names including Brufen, Nurofen, Advil and Motrin.

Ibuprofen has an anti-inflammatory effect

Like other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, ibuprofen inhibits the action of the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX), which is important in the synthesis of the inflammatory mediators known as prostaglandins. Ibuprofen inhibits both forms of the enzyme (COX-1 and COX-2) by competitive reversible binding to the active site ( University of Virginia). By blocking the production of prostaglandins, ibuprofen has a number of anti-inflammatory effects including the reduction of pain and swelling, and the control of fever.

Ibuprofen can reduce blood clotting

Ibuprofen has also been shown to have a vasodilatory effect, improving blood flow to various organs and tissues including the heart. Apstein and Vogel (1982) demonstrated this vasodilatory effect in the coronary circulation of rabbit hearts.