Ibuprofen, usually marketed under the trade names Advil(TM) and Motrin(TM) is an non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID). It is not related to the steroids and therefore can be used safely for minor inflammations without fear of rebound symptoms.
Ibuprofen is often a better choice than aspirin for inflammatory diseases such as arthritis, as it is more effective in reducing inflammation. However, it is not as effective a painkiller as aspirin or acetaminophen. Moreover, it does not have aspirin's anti-clotting effect.
Ibuprofen is commonly used a pain killer for light pain, such as a head ache.