What is ibuprofen primarily used for in infants?

Ibuprofen is primarily used in infants as a second drug choice for fever. This is because it is an effective nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that helps to reduce fever and alleviate mild to moderate pain, such as that associated with teething or vaccinations. It works by inhibiting certain substances in the body that cause inflammation and fever.

In clinical settings, while acetaminophen is typically the first-line medication recommended for managing fever in infants, ibuprofen serves as an alternative when acetaminophen may not be sufficient or contraindicated. It is important to note the dosing guidelines and contraindications for ibuprofen in infants, including age restrictions and potential interactions with other medications.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the primary use of ibuprofen in this age group. For instance, chronic pain treatment is generally not the main focus for ibuprofen in infants, as many chronic pain conditions are rare in this population. Anxiety reduction is not an indication for ibuprofen use, as it does not serve a purpose in treating mental health conditions. Additionally, infections are typically managed with antibiotics or other antimicrobials rather than with ibuprofen, which does not possess antimicrobial properties.