Ibuprofen belongs to a series of drugs called anti-inflammatory analgesics (also called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs [NSAIDs]). These drugs are used to relieve some of the symptoms caused by arthritis (rheumatism), such as inflammation, swelling, stiffness and joint pain. Ibuprofen is also used to relieve pain due to sprains and menstrual cramps. It is often used as a fever-reducer.