Ibuprofen

© Drawing: David E. Volk
Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen is an analgesic drug and a member of the class of drugs refered to as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS). It is thought to be a cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitor, and, like other NSAIDS, may lead to discomfort and ulceration of the gastrointestinal tract.

Chemistry

The form used as a drug is formally the (S)-(+)-Ibuprofen isomer, although it may be sold as a racemic mixture. It is also called other names, including (2S)-2-[4-(2-Methylpropyl)phenyl]propionic acid, (S)-(+)-4-Isobutyl-alpha-methylphenylacetic acid, and (S)-(+)-2-(4-Isobutylphenyl)propionic acid. It has a molecular formula of C₁₃H₁₈O₂ and a molecular mass of 206.28 grams/mole.