mother and daughter laughing
Health Library

Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Acetaminophen/Ibuprofen Injection (IBUPROFEN/ACETAMINOPHEN - INJECTION)

This medicine is used for the following purposes:

  • fever
  • pain

Brand Name(s): Combogesic

Generic Name: Acetaminophen/Ibuprofen

Instructions

This medicine is given as an IV injection into a vein.

This medicine should be given over 15 minutes.

Read and make sure you understand the instructions for measuring dose and using syringe. If you have any questions, talk to your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

Do not mix this medicine with other solutions.

Always inspect the medicine before using.

The liquid should be clear and colorless.

Do not use the medicine if it contains any particles or if it has changed color.

Keep medicine at room temperature. Protect from light.

Keep the medicine in its original container.

Never use any medicine that has expired.

Discard any remaining medicine after your dose is given.

Ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist to show you how to use this medicine correctly.

This medicine can make you sensitive to the sun. Use sunscreen or protective clothing when in sun.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

Talk to your doctor before taking other medicines, including aspirins and ibuprofen containing products. Speak to your doctor about which medicines are safe to use while you are on this medicine.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Do not use for more than 5 days.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

This medicine is associated with an increased risk of serious heart problems, heart attack, and stroke. Please speak with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medicine. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience chest pain or difficulty breathing.

This medicine may cause bleeding from the stomach or bowels. Stop this medicine and call your doctor right away if you have pain in the stomach, red or dark tarry stools, or vomit that looks like coffee grounds.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

Do not drink beverages with alcohol while on this medicine.

Avoid smoking while on this medicine. Smoking may increase your risk for stomach bleeding.

This medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

This medicine can hurt a new baby in the womb. If you become pregnant while on this medicine, tell your doctor immediately. Your doctor may switch you to a different medicine.

Ask your pharmacist how to properly throw away used needles or syringes.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

This medicine has acetaminophen. Many medicines have acetaminophen. Taking them together can cause you to get too much acetaminophen, which can cause serious liver problems. Read all medicine labels for acetaminophen. Ask your pharmacist which medicines you can take safely.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • constipation or diarrhea
  • dizziness or drowsiness
  • high blood pressure
  • pain, redness, swelling near injection
  • nausea and vomiting
  • stomach upset or abdominal pain

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • bleeding or bruising
  • chest or jaw pain
  • coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
  • swelling of the legs, feet, and hands
  • fever
  • swelling in the neck or throat
  • signs of kidney damage (such as change in urine color or bubbly urine)
  • signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)
  • mood changes
  • neck pain or stiffness
  • ringing in the ears
  • shortness of breath
  • bloody or dark, tarry stools
  • symptoms of stroke (such as one-sided weakness, slurred speech, confusion)
  • excessive or unusual sweating
  • blurring or changes of vision
  • severe or persistent vomiting
  • sudden or unexplained weight gain

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.