You sprained your ankle and are told to take ibuprofen to reduce the inflammation. what is the mechanism of action for this drug?

Ibufrofen, an NSAID,: Is an anti-inflammatory medication. Its nature is to calm down inflammation. Ankle sprains need ice and antiinflammatory medication such as Ibuprofen in the 1st 24-48 hours to combat swelling and inflammation, then heat afterwards to improve mobility. Add on compression in the way of ankle support and that is the basis for treatment for mild to medium sprains.

Anti-inflammatory: Ibuprofen is within the class of medications called nsaids (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). The injury of the sprain causes a cascade of events that leads to swelling and inflammation. The Ibuprofen is taken to relieve the inflammation as well as the pain associated with the swelling. It's effectiveness is influenced by the stability of the ankle.

Complex: Ibuprofen like all nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications inhibits the cyclooxygenase pathway in the formation of arachidonate acid and other pain mediating molecules. Interrupting this pathway the body does not form these inflammatory mediators and there's less signaling of inflammation which causes swelling and pain.

It is an inhibitor: It works by inhibiting the enzyme cyclooxygenase, which converts arachidonic acid to prostaglandin, which is converted by other enzymes(which are mediators of pain and inflammation. By blocking this pathway, you get pain relief and reduced inflammation.