Relafen vs. Motrin (Ibuprofen)

Are Relafen and Motrin (Ibuprofen) the Same Thing?

Relafen (nabumetone) and Motrin (Ibuprofen) are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) used to treat inflammation and pain caused by arthritis.

Motrin (Ibuprofen) is also used to treat primary dysmenorrhea (menstrual cramps).

The brand name Relafen is no longer available in the U.S. Generic versions may be available.

Brand names for ibuprofen include Advil and Motrin. Ibuprofen is available over-the-counter and as a generic.

Side effects of Relafen and Motrin (Ibuprofen) that are similar include heartburn, stomach pain, diarrhea, bloating, gas, dizziness, headache, nervousness, skin itching or rash, blurred vision, or ringing in your ears.

Side effects of Relafen that are different from ibuprofen include upset stomach and constipation.

Side effects of Motrin (Ibuprofen) that are different from Relafen include nausea and vomiting.

Both Relafen and Motrin (Ibuprofen) may interact with alcohol, aspirin or other NSAIDs, antidepressants, blood thinners, lithium, methotrexate, heart or blood pressure medications, diuretics (water pills), and steroids.

Relafen may also interact with ACE inhibitors.

What Are Possible Side Effects of Relafen?

Common side effects of Relafen include:

  • upset stomach,
  • heartburn,
  • stomach pain,
  • diarrhea,
  • constipation,
  • bloating,
  • gas,
  • dizziness,
  • headache,
  • nervousness,
  • skin itching or rash,
  • blurred vision, or
  • ringing in your ears.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (including Relafen) may rarely increase the risk for a heart attack or stroke. Bleeding from the gastrointestinal tract is another potentially serious side effect of Relafen.

What Are Possible Side Effects of Motrin (Ibuprofen)?

Common side effects of Motrin (Ibuprofen) include:

  • stomach pain,
  • constipation,
  • diarrhea,
  • bloating,
  • gas,
  • heartburn,
  • nausea,
  • vomiting,
  • dizziness,
  • headache,
  • nervousness,
  • skin itching or rash,
  • blurred vision, or
  • ringing in the ears.

Other side effects of Motrin may occur. Consult your physician if you experience any possible side effects of Motrin.

What Is Relafen?

Relafen (nabumetone) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) drug used to treat inflammation and pain caused by arthritis. The brand name drug Relafen is no longer available in the U.S. Generic versions may be available.

What Is Motrin (Ibuprofen)?

Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) indicated for relief of the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, for relief of mild to moderate pain, and for treatment of primary dysmenorrhea. A generic formulation is available.

What Drugs Interact With Relafen?

Relafen may interact with antidepressants, blood thinners, lithium, methotrexate, diuretics (water pills), steroids, aspirin or other NSAIDs, or ACE inhibitors.. There are no adequate, well-controlled studies in pregnant women, and Relafen should be used in pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Use during late pregnancy should be avoided because of the known effects of NSAIDs in the fetal cardiovascular system (closure of ductus arteriosus). It is not known whether Relafen is excreted in human milk; a decision should be made whether to discontinue breastfeeding or to discontinue the Relafen.

What Drugs Interact With Motrin (Ibuprofen)?

Ibuprofen may interact with other drugs. Tell your doctor all medications and supplements you use.

How Should Relafen Be Taken?

Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals.

How Should Motrin (Ibuprofen) Be Taken?

The recommended dose of Motrin should be adjusted to suit individual patients needs but should not exceed 3200 mg in the total daily dose. Use of alcohol and smoking could increase side effects. Safe use of Motrin for use by children has not been established. It is not known whether ibuprofen is harmful to an unborn baby.

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References
SOURCE:

FDA. Relafen Product Information.

https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2005/019583s023lbl.pdf

Johnson & Johnson Consumer Inc. Motrin Product Information.

https://www.motrin.com/

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