There are no official guidelines to assist in answering this question. I will search for relevant research papers instead.
The FDA Drug Labels for ibuprofen (PO) do not address this question.
From the Research
Ibuprofen and Zika Virus Infection
- Ibuprofen has been studied as a potential treatment for Zika virus infection, with some evidence suggesting it may be effective in inhibiting the replication of the virus 1.
- A study published in the Journal of Virology found that ibuprofen, along with other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), potently inhibited the entry of Zika virus Env/HIV-1-pseudotyped viruses and significantly inhibited the replication of wild-type ZIKV in cell lines and primary human fetal endothelial cells 1.
- Another study reported the use of ibuprofen in the treatment of a patient with Zika virus disease, where it was administered for defervesce and the patient's symptoms improved 2.
- However, it is essential to note that there are no approved therapeutic drugs or vaccines against Zika virus infections, and treatments mainly target the symptoms of infection 3, 4.
- Drug repurposing, including the use of ibuprofen, has been proposed as a potential strategy for treating Zika virus infection, given the urgency of the need for effective therapeutic agents 5.
Mechanism of Action
- The mechanism of action of ibuprofen in inhibiting Zika virus replication is thought to involve the degradation of AXL, the entry cofactor of ZIKV, through the downregulation of the prostaglandin E2/prostaglandin E receptor 2 (EP2)/cAMP/protein kinase A (PKA) signaling pathway 1.
- Further studies are needed to fully understand the mechanism of action of ibuprofen and other NSAIDs in the context of Zika virus infection.
Clinical Use
- While ibuprofen has been used in the treatment of Zika virus disease, its use is primarily symptomatic, and more research is needed to determine its efficacy and safety as a treatment for Zika virus infection 2, 4.
- The use of ibuprofen and other NSAIDs in the treatment of Zika virus infection should be carefully considered, taking into account the potential risks and benefits, as well as the need for further research to fully understand their effects.