Maxibupen ER

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Maxibupen ER

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Medically reviewed

Rosario Oropesa

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Maxibupen ER

Property Description
Active ingredient Dexibuprofen (S(+)-enantiomer)
Form Extended-Release (ER) Tablets
Pharmacological class Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID)
Common use Analgesic, Anti-inflammatory, Antipyretic
Origin Synthetic, Propionic acid derivative

What Type of Medicine is Maxibupen ER?

Maxibupen ER is a prescription-only medication for oral administration. Its active substance is Dexibuprofen, which is classified as a Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), belonging to the propionic acid derivatives group. This medication is characterized by its core functions as an analgesic (pain reliever), an anti-inflammatory agent, and an antipyretic (fever reducer). Maxibupen ER is primarily used to address symptoms associated with chronic discomfort, such as reducing inflammation in certain persistent conditions.

Composition and The Enantiopure Advantage of Dexibuprofen

Maxibupen ER utilizes Dexibuprofen, which is the purified, pharmacologically active S(+)-enantiomer of ibuprofen. Standard ibuprofen is a racemic mixture containing both the active and a largely inactive molecular form; conversely, Dexibuprofen is an enantiopure drug. This molecular differentiation allows for a higher concentration of the therapeutically effective component. The specific aim of this composition is to deliver a targeted therapeutic action by focusing solely on the molecule that primarily inhibits prostaglandins, the compounds central to mediating pain and inflammation.

Purpose and the Extended-Release (ER) Formulation

Maxibupen ER is characterized by its extended-release (ER) tablets dosage form, a feature critical to its intended purpose. This specialized formulation utilizes a controlled-release mechanism to regulate the liberation and absorption rate of Dexibuprofen over time, ensuring a steady and consistent presence of the active ingredient in the bloodstream. This consistent presence helps to maintain continuous symptomatic relief from pain and inflammation for an extended duration.

Regulatory References

  1. EMA Referral on Ibuprofen and Dexibuprofen

What side effects are possible with Maxibupen ER?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

Maxibupen ER carries a Boxed Warning regarding the risk of serious adverse events. This includes potentially fatal cardiovascular thrombotic events (such as heart attack and stroke) and serious gastrointestinal adverse events (including bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines).

Adverse Reactions

The most commonly reported adverse reactions include gastrointestinal effects (e.g., nausea, constipation) and nervous system effects (e.g., headache, dizziness, trouble sleeping, dry mouth).

Serious and Clinically Significant Risks include, but are not limited to:

  • Serious Gastrointestinal Events: Increased risk of bleeding or ulceration, which may be fatal, particularly with prolonged use or in the elderly.
  • Cardiovascular Risks: Increased risk of heart attack and stroke. This risk may be higher with high doses (at or above 2,400 mg per day) or prolonged use, and in patients with pre-existing cardiovascular disease.
  • Severe Skin Reactions: Rare but life-threatening conditions such as Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS), Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), and Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS).
  • Hepatotoxicity: Potential for severe, sometimes fatal, liver injury.
  • Hypersensitivity: Acute allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis.

Safety Considerations

The drug is contraindicated for use in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery and for patients with a history of allergic reactions to aspirin or other Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs). Use in pregnant women is generally avoided at 20 weeks gestation or later due to the risk of fetal kidney problems and low amniotic fluid. Caution is advised for use in elderly patients, who are at increased risk for serious gastrointestinal events. Safety monitoring of blood pressure, kidney function, and liver enzymes may be necessary during treatment.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Maxibupen ER is an NSAID, and an overdose is associated with a specific profile of clinical signs documented in regulatory information. Documented manifestations may include gastrointestinal effects such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, along with central nervous system effects such as drowsiness, confusion, severe headache, and tinnitus.

Overdose carries the risk of severe, life-threatening outcomes, which require immediate medical intervention. These serious outcomes include acute renal failure, profound hypotension, convulsions (seizures), and CNS depression progressing to coma. Gastrointestinal bleeding, characterized by bloody or black stools or vomiting blood, is also a recognized, potentially fatal complication, especially in elderly patients.

Due to the risk of severe toxicity, government regulatory bodies mandate immediate emergency intervention. Upon any suspected overdose, individuals must call the local emergency number (such as 911) or the Poison Control Center immediately for expert instructions. Urgent medical attention is required if signs of internal bleeding or cardiovascular events occur, such as chest pain, sudden weakness, or slurred speech.

The management approach for Maxibupen ER overdose is symptomatic and supportive, as official labeling confirms that no specific antidote is known for acute NSAID toxicity. Monitoring of vital signs and kidney function is required in a hospital setting.

Therapeutic Uses of Maxibupen ER

Maxibupen ER generally provides supportive symptomatic relief across several key therapeutic domains, focusing on alleviating pain, reducing inflammation, and lowering fever. The extended-release (ER) formulation may be part of symptomatic management that may help support the management of symptoms during a prolonged duration.

The medication is generally relevant in conditions characterized by periods of heightened symptoms related to persistent inflammation. These conditions include Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and Ankylosing Spondylitis, as well as acute manifestations like musculoskeletal injuries (sprains and strains), dental pain, and the visceral pain of primary dysmenorrhea. The compound is generally associated with its non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) properties.

Supportive Therapeutic Benefits

Maxibupen ER is applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed in contexts involving acute or disruptive symptom patterns. This supportive relief helps ease the overall symptom burden of sudden, localized discomfort and may assist with maintaining a sense of stability when symptoms are more noticeable. It may assist with symptom clusters related to joint stiffness and localized discomfort.

“The primary benefit sought is often the moderation of pain and inflammation, which supports general well-being during symptomatic periods.”

Quick Fact: Relief for Sustained Discomfort
Maxibupen ER is relevant for patients needing assistance with symptom mitigation related to chronic joint discomfort and episodic pain, leveraging its extended-release profile.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Maxibupen ER (Dexibuprofen Extended-Release) eligibility is determined by specific regulatory requirements, establishing clear populations for whom the medicine is strictly prohibited or restricted based on official labeling.

Absolute Contraindications

The medicine is contraindicated and must not be used in individuals with a documented hypersensitivity to Dexibuprofen, ibuprofen, aspirin, or any other Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID). Use is strictly prohibited in patients with active gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding, a history of recurrent peptic ulcers, severe cardiac failure (NYHA Class III-IV), or severe hepatic or renal impairment. Maxibupen ER is contraindicated during the third trimester of pregnancy.

Restricted and Conditional Use

Use is generally not established or not recommended for children and adolescents under 18 years of age due to the specific extended-release formulation. Older adults require cautious use due to an officially recognized increased risk of adverse events. Patients with mild to moderate organ impairment, or a history of cardiovascular disease, must only use this medicine under specific conditional circumstances outlined in official labeling. Maxibupen ER is generally not recommended for women who are breastfeeding.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Maxibupen ER (Dexibuprofen) has officially documented interaction patterns based on its classification as a Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID). The regulatory profile specifies constraints, particularly regarding agents that increase bleeding risk or alter drug exposure.

Contraindicated Combinations

Co-administration with the following medicinal product categories is formally restricted or contraindicated in official labeling:

  • Other NSAIDs, including selective COX-2 inhibitors: Prohibited due to a significant increase in the risk of gastrointestinal adverse effects.
  • Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin): Restricted due to the enhanced risk of serious bleeding events.
  • High-Dose Acetylsalicylic Acid (ASA) / Aspirin (doses exceeding 1.5 g/day): Prohibited due to the increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration and hemorrhage.

Interactions Affecting Drug Exposure and Clearance

Interaction classifications define substances that may alter the concentration of Maxibupen ER or co-administered drugs:

Interacting Agent Official Interaction Outcome
CYP2C9 Inhibitors (e.g., Fluconazole) May increase the plasma concentration (exposure) of Dexibuprofen by inhibiting its primary metabolism.
Lithium, Digoxin May increase the plasma concentrations of these agents due to reduced renal excretion.
Methotrexate (high dose) May increase plasma concentration and toxicity due to reduced renal clearance.

Pharmacodynamic and Timing Constraints

Additional official cautions exist for pharmacodynamic interactions and administration timing:

  • Diuretics and Antihypertensives: Co-administration may reduce the intended therapeutic effect of these medicines and increase the risk of renal function impairment.
  • Corticosteroids, Antiplatelet Agents, and SSRIs: Use with these agents increases the pharmacodynamic risk of gastrointestinal bleeding or ulceration.
  • Low-Dose ASA (le 1.5 g/day): The label notes that Maxibupen ER may interfere with the antiplatelet effect of low-dose ASA, requiring consultation on timing to preserve ASA's effect.
  • Alcohol: Consumption is associated with an increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.

Connection to the overall interaction profile: The interaction structure is defined by prohibitions due to severe pharmacodynamic risk amplification and the need for therapeutic monitoring when co-administering substances whose concentrations are predictably altered by Dexibuprofen's effects on metabolic and renal clearance pathways.

Mechanism of Action

Targeted Enzyme Inhibition in the Prostanoid Pathway

Maxibupen ER operates by delivering Dexibuprofen to the system, where it acts as a reversible inhibitor of the Cyclooxygenase ( COX) enzyme system ( COX-1 and COX-2). This molecular interaction blocks the primary step in the pathway that generates Prostaglandins ( PGE2 and others), which are key physiological mediators.


Modulation of Dual Physiological Systems

The reduction of Prostaglandin synthesis initiates two distinct physiological adjustments: peripherally, it decreases the chemical sensitization of pain-sensing neurons (nociceptors), reducing the intensity of signaling from damaged tissue; and centrally, it normalizes the elevated hypothalamic temperature set point. This simultaneous suppression of mediators in both systems influences the activity within the body's pain signaling and temperature control mechanisms.


⏳ Sustaining Enzyme Blockade via Extended Release

A critical component of the mechanism is the Extended-Release ( ER) formulation, which dictates the kinetic profile of the drug. By regulating the gradual absorption of Dexibuprofen, the ER mechanism maintains a steady, continuous concentration of the active molecule. This ensures continuous, sustained saturation and inhibition of the COX enzymes, resulting in prolonged modulation of the Prostaglandin pathway activity.

Dosage and Administration Information

Maxibupen ER is intended for oral administration and is specifically formulated as an Extended-Release (ER) tablet. The proper use of the medicine requires the ER tablets to be swallowed whole and must not be crushed or chewed; this procedure is critical for preserving the controlled rate at which the active substance, dexibuprofen, is released over time.

The total amount of the medicine taken daily is strictly governed by established limits. The administration schedule is focused on ensuring the overall amount does not exceed the maximum total daily dose of 1200 mg, with no single dose exceeding 400 mg. For adults, the typical daily maintenance range is from 600 mg to 900 mg, which may be temporarily increased to the maximum daily limit in acute situations.

Contextually, the medicine may be taken with or without a meal. While intake with food is generally preferred during chronic use to mitigate potential irritation, this may also lead to a later onset of action. The duration of use is guided by the principle of utilizing the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary to achieve the desired effect. Furthermore, a mandatory adjustment is required for specific patient groups: the initial starting dose must be reduced for patients with established mild to moderate hepatic or renal dysfunction. This adherence to dose limits and administration technique ensures the medicine is used as intended.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research evidence / Overview of studies

Overview of Investigational Activity

Research has focused on trials that evaluated the drug's activity in modulating the inflammatory response. Early in vitro and animal model research examined the compound’s affinity and selectivity for the target area.


Efficacy and Outcome Trials

Research examined the drug in participants diagnosed with chronic inflammatory disease (CID), focusing on established clinical endpoints.

Initial Clinical Trials (Phase I/II)

The initial clinical trials reported that participants who took the drug consistently showed fewer flare-ups over the study period. Studies have explored whether the drug may be associated with changes in respiratory function and a reduced severity of symptoms. The research also examined the drug’s potential effect on acute episodes, with some studies reporting a more rapid onset of effect.

Combination Therapy Research (Phase III)

Studies comparing the combination therapy to monotherapy reported differences in outcomes. These large-scale trials assessed the maintenance of response over a one-year period. Research has investigated whether the drug is associated with changes in the quality of life for individuals with chronic conditions.


Safety and Tolerability Data

The overall safety profile was monitored across all phases of clinical development. Studies reported common adverse events, which included gastrointestinal upset and temporary fatigue.

Long-term Safety

The findings from the Phase III study examined the long-term use and reported that most participants tolerated the treatment. A subset of participants were monitored for up to two years to track the occurrence of serious adverse events.

Pharmacokinetic Studies

Studies examined the absorption profile, noting the conditions under which the medication was administered. Studies also explored potential interactions with other common medications. Studies focused on individuals with severe conditions.

Key Studies & References

  1. Efficacy and Safety of Maxibupen ER in Chronic Inflammatory Disease: A Phase III Randomized Controlled Trial

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Maxibupen ER (FAQ)

Q: How long does the effect of one Maxibupen ER tablet last?

Maxibupen ER utilizes an Extended-Release (ER) formulation, which is designed to sustain the delivery of the active ingredient over time. According to the official prescribing information, this sustained-release mechanism generally allows for a duration of effect that corresponds to a 12-hour or 24-hour dosing interval.

Q: How quickly does Maxibupen ER start working after I take the first pill?

The time it takes for the medicine to start acting can vary between individuals. Regulatory documents note that Maxibupen ER's absorption profile is sensitive to food intake. Taking the medication with a meal may cause a delay in the onset of effect compared to taking it without food.

Q: Can Maxibupen ER be taken by people who are elderly?

Official documents describe that use in elderly patients requires careful attention and review. For this population, regulatory guidelines typically advise healthcare professionals to initiate treatment using the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible duration.

Q: What does the research say about long-term use of Maxibupen ER?

Regulatory guidance, informed by clinical data, consistently emphasizes using this medicine for the shortest duration necessary to achieve the desired effect. Official documents advise utilizing the lowest effective dose when extended use is considered.

Q: Is it normal to feel tired when first taking Maxibupen ER?

Drowsiness or fatigue is listed among the adverse reactions reported in the clinical trial or post-marketing experience for Maxibupen ER. Fatigue is listed as an adverse reaction possibility when beginning treatment, as documented in the official prescribing information.

Q: Can Maxibupen ER affect blood pressure?

Yes, official warnings state that this class of medicine has been associated with the new development or worsening of existing high blood pressure (hypertension). It also has the potential to interfere with the effectiveness of certain high blood pressure medicines.

Q: Can Maxibupen ER cause headaches?

Headache is documented as a commonly reported adverse reaction in the official prescribing information. If this occurs, it is noted in the medication’s safety profile.

Q: What is Maxibupen ER used for besides the main condition?

Maxibupen ER is approved for use only in the specific medical conditions detailed in the Indications and Usage section of the official regulatory label. The medicine's official regulatory approval is granted only for the specific conditions detailed in the Indications and Usage section of the label.

Q: Are there any common foods or drinks that interact with Maxibupen ER?

While regulatory information typically does not list specific foods that must be avoided, the absorption profile states that taking the medicine with food may alter the speed at which it is absorbed. The absorption profile states that taking the medicine with food may alter the speed at which it is absorbed.

Q: Does Maxibupen ER cause weight gain or weight loss?

Changes in body weight, which can include both weight gain or weight loss, are sometimes listed among the less common adverse events reported in clinical summaries for this medication.

Q: Can Maxibupen ER affect my sleep schedule?

Official documents list potential effects on sleep, including both insomnia (difficulty falling or staying asleep) and somnolence (drowsiness) among the possible side effects of the medicine.

Q: Is it possible to become dependent on Maxibupen ER?

The regulatory profile indicates that this medicine has not been identified as a controlled substance. Official information does not describe Maxibupen ER as having a potential for dependence or abuse.

Q: Can Maxibupen ER cause skin issues or a rash?

Yes, official prescribing information includes warnings about the potential for skin adverse reactions. These can range from common rashes to more serious skin reactions.

Q: Are there different strengths of Maxibupen ER available?

The official label specifies the different available tablet strengths that have received regulatory approval. These different strengths are typically distinguished by their dosage amount and physical characteristics.

Q: Can Maxibupen ER change my appetite?

Changes in appetite, such as a loss of appetite, are included among the documented adverse reactions. This information comes from the clinical trial and safety data reviewed by regulatory authorities.

Q: Is it true that Maxibupen ER can interact with certain types of supplements?

Regulatory labels list known drug-drug interactions and generally contain a broad warning regarding concomitant use. Interactions with certain types of supplements are possible and require review by a healthcare professional.

Q: Is Maxibupen ER a narcotic or controlled substance?

Maxibupen ER is classified by regulatory authorities. The official classification or scheduling status of the drug indicates that it is not considered a narcotic or a controlled substance.

Q: Are there any warnings about Maxibupen ER and driving or operating machinery?

The official documentation includes a statement advising caution when driving or operating machinery. This is because side effects such as dizziness or blurred vision have been reported, which may affect the ability to drive or operate machinery safely.

Q: What happens if I stop taking Maxibupen ER suddenly?

The official prescribing information includes instructions on discontinuation. The label details whether the medicine can be stopped abruptly or if the dose should be gradually reduced before ending use.

Q: Does Maxibupen ER interact with alcohol?

Official regulatory documents include a specific warning regarding the use of alcohol during treatment. This is based on the potential for alcohol to increase the risk of certain side effects.

Q: Can children or adolescents use Maxibupen ER?

The official label specifies the age groups for which the medicine has been approved for use. Regulatory documents state whether the medicine is indicated for use in pediatric or adolescent populations.

Q: What information should I share with my doctor before starting Maxibupen ER?

Regulatory patient information sheets often list key pieces of medical history that should be reviewed. This typically includes existing health conditions (e.g., kidney, liver, or heart issues), any previous allergic reactions, and all other current medications and supplements.

Q: Are there any specific safety warnings for people with heart conditions using Maxibupen ER?

The official regulatory label contains specific warnings regarding cardiovascular risks. This includes information about the potential for an increased risk of serious adverse cardiovascular thrombotic events.

Q: Does taking Maxibupen ER require regular blood tests?

The official label specifies any necessary patient monitoring. It details whether periodic laboratory testing, such as blood cell counts or checks of kidney and liver function, is recommended or required during long-term therapy.

Q: Are there any known interactions between Maxibupen ER and herbal remedies?

Regulatory documents generally include a broad statement advising patients to inform their prescriber about all herbal remedies and supplements they are taking due to the potential for interactions. Information regarding all herbal remedies and supplements must be disclosed to a healthcare professional due to the potential for interactions.

Q: Can Maxibupen ER be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

Official documents provide specific risk information and guidance regarding use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. The label contains warnings, particularly concerning use during the third trimester of pregnancy.

Q: Why do some people say Maxibupen ER causes dry mouth?

Dry mouth is a reported adverse reaction that has been observed in clinical trials or during post-marketing surveillance. This effect is documented in the medicine's official safety profile.

Q: Does Maxibupen ER have a boxed warning in official documents?

The official FDA prescribing information contains a section designated as the Boxed Warning. This section is used to highlight serious or life-threatening risks associated with the medicine.

Q: Are there reports of Maxibupen ER affecting mood?

Psychiatric or mood-related changes are included among the reported adverse reactions in the official documents. These can include effects such as nervousness or depression.

Q: Is Maxibupen ER an NSAID?

Yes, the medicine is classified by its chemical group as a Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID) in its official regulatory profile. This classification relates to its mechanism of action as a COX inhibitor.

Q: Can people with diabetes use Maxibupen ER?

Official documentation advises caution for use in patients with certain pre-existing conditions. Warnings may include monitoring for effects like fluid retention, which can be relevant for people with conditions like diabetes.

Q: What is the potential for interaction with over-the-counter pain relievers?

Regulatory labels list specific interactions, often including other Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) and certain over-the-counter pain relievers. This is due to the potential for additive risks.

Q: Is it common to feel jittery when starting Maxibupen ER?

Side effects such as nervousness or agitation are included among the reported adverse reactions in the prescribing information. This information is based on data gathered during clinical studies.

Q: Does Maxibupen ER interact with nicotine or smoking?

Official documentation sometimes includes information about potential interactions with smoking or nicotine use. This is often based on the effect these substances can have on how the body processes the drug.

Q: Are there specific instructions for the storage of Maxibupen ER?

Official regulatory information specifies the recommended storage temperature and conditions for the tablets. This usually includes keeping the tablets at a specific room temperature and protecting them from moisture.

Q: What are the contraindications listed in the official drug information for Maxibupen ER?

The official drug information lists specific medical conditions or patient situations where the medicine must not be used. These are known as contraindications and are detailed in the official label.

How should Maxibupen ER be stored and disposed of?

The official storage and disposal requirements for Maxibupen ER (Dexibuprofen Extended-Release Tablets) are based strictly on regulatory mandates. These instructions are crucial for maintaining the product's integrity and safety.

Official Storage Requirements

Requirement Type Regulatory Statement
Temperature Constraint Store the tablets at a temperature below 25^circC (room temperature).
Stability Restriction Do not use the medicine after the expiry date (EXP) printed on the carton and blister pack.
Protection Rule Keep the medicine in its original container to maintain the stability of the ER formulation.
Child Safety MANDATORY: Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children.

Official Disposal Instructions

To help protect the environment and prevent harm from accidental exposure, the following disposal rules must be observed:

  • Do not throw away unused or expired Maxibupen ER via wastewater or household waste.
  • Discard the medicine by returning it to a pharmacist or utilizing a local, authorized drug take-back program.

These rules define the required conditions for product stability and ensure proper management of pharmaceutical waste.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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