Overview

2-(4-Isobutylphenyl)propionic acid (two four eye-so-BYOO-tuhl-PHEEN-uhl PRO-pi-on-ik AS-id) is a colorless crystalline solid widely used as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory medication. It is most commonly known as ibuprofen, but is also known as α-methyl-4-(2-methylpropyl)benzeneacetic acid and 4-isobutyl-@alpha;-methylphenylacetic acid. It is also sold under a variety of trade names, including Aches-n-Pain®, Advil®, Andran®, Antagil®, Antarene®, Excedrin IB®, Genpril®, Ibuprin®, Medipren®, Midol®, Motrin®, Nuprin®, PediaProfen®, Rufen®, and Vicoprofen®.

Key Facts

Other Names:

Ibuprofen; see Overview for more names

Formula:

C₁₃H₁₈O₂

Elements:

Carbon, hydrogen, oxygen

Compound Type:

Organic acid

State:

Solid

Molecular Weight:

206.28 g/mol

Melting Point:

76°C (169°F)

Boiling Point:

Not applicable; decomposes above melting point

Solubility:

Slightly soluble in water; soluble in most organic solvents

Ibuprofen was developed by researchers at the Boots Company, a British drug manufacturer, in the early 1960s. Those researchers...