title: Antibacterial activity of the anti-inflammatory compound ibuprofen.
abstract: The effect of ibuprofen on growth in vitro of six bacterial species was tested. Ibuprofen inhibited growth of the Gram-positive species, but the two Gram-negative species were unaffected. Growth of Staphylococcus aureus was suppressed by ibuprofen concentrations greater than 150 micrograms ml-1 at initial pH 7. At pH 6, such concentrations prevented growth. The antibacterial activity of ibuprofen was affected by pH, being more effective at values below pH 7. Ibuprofen may have an ancillary benefit in topical application, in controlling bacteria.
authors.affiliation: School of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Avon, UK.
authors.forename: K T
authors.initials: KT
authors.lastname: Elvers
authors.forename: S J
authors.initials: SJ
authors.lastname: Wright
mesh_terms: D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D006090:Gram-Negative Bacteria / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000254:growth & development; D006094:Gram-Positive Bacteria / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000254:growth & development; D006863:Hydrogen-Ion Concentration; D007052:Ibuprofen / Q000494:pharmacology*; D008826:Microbial Sensitivity Tests; D013211:Staphylococcus aureus / Q000187:drug effects / Q000254:growth & development
chemical_list: D007052:Ibuprofen