The imprint “I 10” on a pill identifies it as a high-strength formulation of Ibuprofen, specifically 800 milligrams (mg). This medication is a commonly prescribed drug used to manage pain, reduce fever, and decrease inflammation throughout the body. Unlike lower-dose versions available over-the-counter, this 800 mg tablet is a prescription-only strength intended for more significant or chronic conditions. The “I” often denotes a manufacturer, and the “10” or similar number signifies the dosage strength or a specific product code. Understanding this identification is necessary for using the medication safely and correctly.
Detailed Identification and Classification
The pill marked with the imprint “I 10” is typically a white, capsule-shaped, or oblong tablet containing 800 mg of Ibuprofen. This physical description is important for verifying the medication against official drug identification resources. The pill’s appearance confirms it is the maximum single dose generally prescribed for an adult.
Ibuprofen belongs to a pharmacological category known as Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs). This class of medication works by targeting specific enzymes within the body that promote inflammation and pain. Specifically, Ibuprofen acts as a nonselective inhibitor of cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, known as COX-1 and COX-2.
The inhibition of these COX enzymes prevents the production of substances called prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are lipid compounds that contribute to the body’s inflammatory response, sensitize nerve endings to pain, and help regulate body temperature. By blocking their synthesis, Ibuprofen effectively reduces pain perception, lowers elevated body temperature, and decreases swelling.
Primary Medical Uses
Ibuprofen 800 mg is reserved for medical conditions requiring a stronger anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect than non-prescription doses provide. It is frequently prescribed for the management of mild to moderate pain, including pain resulting from dental procedures, minor surgical interventions, and soft tissue injuries like sprains and strains.
The high-dose formulation is also commonly indicated for managing chronic inflammatory disorders, such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. For these patients, the 800 mg strength helps control persistent joint pain and stiffness. The dose is adjusted by a healthcare provider to achieve maximum symptom relief while minimizing adverse effects.
This prescription strength is also used to treat primary dysmenorrhea, which involves severe menstrual cramps. Ibuprofen’s ability to quickly reduce the production of inflammatory prostaglandins makes it highly effective in alleviating this type of pain. The medication is also utilized to reduce fever when lower doses are insufficient or when the fever is associated with significant inflammation.
Safety Information and Administration Guidelines
Due to the potency of the 800 mg dose, administration must be managed to reduce adverse effects. Patients are advised to take the tablet with food, milk, or an antacid to buffer the stomach lining and reduce the risk of gastrointestinal irritation. Taking the medication with food helps prevent stomach upset, which is a common complaint with NSAIDs.
The maximum recommended adult daily dosage is 3,200 mg, typically divided into four doses of 800 mg taken every six to eight hours. Do not exceed this total daily limit, as higher doses significantly increase the chance of serious side effects. Patients should always use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary.
A serious safety consideration involves potential gastrointestinal complications, including ulceration, bleeding, and perforation of the stomach or intestines. These events can occur without warning symptoms and pose a greater risk for older adults or those with a history of GI issues. Signs like persistent stomach pain, black or tarry stools, or vomiting material resembling coffee grounds warrant immediate medical attention.
Ibuprofen also carries a Boxed Warning regarding cardiovascular risk, as NSAIDs can increase the risk of serious thrombotic events, such as heart attack and stroke. This risk can manifest early in treatment and may increase with the duration of use. The medication is contraindicated for use immediately before or after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.
Contraindications extend to individuals with known hypersensitivity to Ibuprofen or other NSAIDs, severe heart failure, or advanced kidney disease. Because Ibuprofen is metabolized in the liver and excreted by the kidneys, pre-existing conditions affecting these organs require careful monitoring. Common side effects include dizziness, nausea, headache, and fluid retention, which should be discussed with a healthcare professional if they persist.