Last reviewed 2026-04-23 · How we verify

Ibuprofen plus caffeine

Ibuprofen inhibits cyclooxygenase enzymes to reduce prostaglandin synthesis and inflammation, while caffeine enhances analgesic efficacy and reduces drowsiness.

Ibuprofen inhibits cyclooxygenase enzymes to reduce prostaglandin synthesis and inflammation, while caffeine enhances analgesic efficacy and reduces drowsiness. Used for Acute pain relief (headache, migraine, dental pain, musculoskeletal pain).

At a glance

Mechanism of action

Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that blocks COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, thereby decreasing prostaglandin production and providing anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic effects. Caffeine acts as an adenosine receptor antagonist and enhances the analgesic potency of ibuprofen, allowing for lower doses and faster pain relief while also counteracting potential sedation.

Approved indications

• Acute pain relief (headache, migraine, dental pain, musculoskeletal pain)

Common side effects

• Gastrointestinal upset
• Dyspepsia
• Nausea
• Jitteriness or nervousness (caffeine-related)
• Insomnia

Key clinical trials

• Study to Assess the Safety and Efficacy of Etoricoxib Versus Ibuprofen in the Treatment of Dysmenorrhea (MK-0663-145 AM1) (PHASE3)
• Synergistic Pharmacologic Intervention for Prevention of ROP (SPIPROP Study) (PHASE2)
• Ibuprofen/Caffeine Lower Back or Neck Pain Study (PHASE3)
• A Dental Pain Study Comparing The Analgesic Efficacy Of Ibuprofen/Caffeine (PHASE3)
• Clinical Study to Evaluate Efficacy of New Paracetamol Formulation Compared to Ibuprofen in Headache (PHASE3)
• Treatment of Orthostatic Hypotension in Autonomic Failure (PHASE1)
• Efficacy and Safety of Ibuprofen and Caffeine in Dental Pain (PHASE3)
• Paracetamol With Caffeine to Treat Episodic Tension Type Headache (PHASE2, PHASE3)

Primary sources

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