1. Glossary
  2. Nurofen (ibuprofen)

Nurofen (ibuprofen)

Nurofen is a brand of medication commonly used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. The active ingredient in Nurofen is ibuprofen, a type of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by blocking the production of certain chemicals in the body that cause inflammation and pain.

People often use Nurofen to treat headaches, toothaches, menstrual cramps, muscle pain, and inflammation caused by conditions like arthritis. It can also help reduce fever. Available in various forms, including tablets and liquid suspensions, Nurofen offers flexibility in how it can be taken by individuals of different ages and needs.

In Australia, Nurofen is widely accessible over the counter at pharmacies and various retail outlets. While generally safe when used as directed, it is essential to follow dosage instructions to avoid potential side effects such as stomach upset or more severe health issues. Consulting a healthcare professional is advisable if there are concerns or if the medication is needed for an extended period.

Other glossary terms

ABG (arterial blood gas)

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Absence from work

Absence from work is when an employee is not present during scheduled working hours due to various reasons like illness or personal commitments.

Acetaminophen

Acetaminophen is a common medication used to relieve pain and reduce fever, often found in over-the-counter and prescription products.

Acne

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ACS (acute coronary syndrome)

Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) is a serious heart condition where blood flow to the heart is suddenly reduced, requiring immediate medical attention.

Acute (sudden onset or short duration)

"Acute" refers to a medical condition that appears suddenly and resolves over a short time.

Acyclovir

Acyclovir is a medication used to treat infections caused by certain viruses like herpes and shingles, reducing the severity and duration of symptoms.

Adalimumab

Adalimumab is a medication used to treat inflammatory conditions by reducing inflammation through targeting specific proteins in the body.

Addiction

Addiction is a compulsive engagement with substances or behaviors that negatively impact one's life.

Addison's disease

Addison's disease is a rare condition leading to insufficient hormone production by the adrenal glands, causing symptoms like fatigue and low blood pressure.

ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder)

ADHD is a common condition affecting attention, impulse control, and activity level, characterized by symptoms like distractibility, impulsivity, and restlessness.

ADL (activities of daily living)

ADL (activities of daily living) refers to essential daily self-care tasks, crucial for maintaining independence and well-being.

Adrenal gland

The adrenal glands are small, triangle-shaped organs on top of the kidneys that produce hormones essential for stress response, metabolism, and blood pressure regulation.

Adrenaline (epinephrine)

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Allergen

An allergen is a substance that can trigger an allergic reaction in certain people.

Allergies

Allergies are the immune system's overreaction to typically harmless substances such as pollen or certain foods, causing symptoms from sneezing to potential severe reactions.

Allergist

An allergist is a medical specialist who diagnoses and treats allergies and related immune system reactions.

Allergy

An allergy is an immune system response to a harmless substance, mistakenly identified as a threat.

ALP (alkaline phosphatase)

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Alprazolam

Alprazolam is a medication used to treat anxiety and panic disorders by calming the brain through its effects on natural chemicals in the body.

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