ibuprofen

noun

ibu·​pro·​fen ˌī-byu̇-ˈprō-fən How to pronounce ibuprofen (audio)
 also  ī-ˈbyü-prə-fən
: a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug C13H18O2 used to relieve pain and fever

Examples of ibuprofen in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Fever reducers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can induce sweating as your body breaks a fever. Lauryn Higgins, Time, 7 July 2025 Always speak with your child’s health care provider before giving acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Anna Halkidis, Parents, 4 July 2025 Take over-the-counter pain medications, like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, as needed. Jenna Anderson, Health, 26 June 2025 Behavioral therapy for pain Many adults think nothing of taking medicines such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen for minor aches and pains, but there’s little evidence that pharmacologic treatments work best for children’s chronic pain. Natoshia R. Cunningham, The Conversation, 4 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for ibuprofen

Word History

Etymology

is- + butyl + propionic acid + -fen (alteration of phenyl)

First Known Use

1967, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ibuprofen was in 1967

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Cite this Entry

“Ibuprofen.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ibuprofen. Accessed 26 Jul. 2025.

Medical Definition

ibuprofen

noun
ibu·​pro·​fen ˌī-byu̇-ˈprō-fən How to pronounce ibuprofen (audio)
: a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug C13H18O2 used in over-the-counter preparations to relieve pain and fever and in prescription strength especially to relieve the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and degenerative arthritis see advil, motrin

More from Merriam-Webster on ibuprofen

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