Description

What is Ibuprofen

Generic Name: ibuprofen (EYE bue PROE fen)
Brand Names: Advil, Midol, Motrin, Motrin IB, Motrin Migraine Pain,
Proprinal, Smart Sense Children’s Ibuprofen, PediaCare Children’s Pain
Reliever/Fever Reducer, PediaCare Infant’s Pain Reliever/Fever Reducer

Medically reviewed by Kaci Durbin, MD Last updated on Sep 4, 2019.

Overview
Side Effects
Dosage
Professional
Tips
Interactions
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What is ibuprofen?

Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works
by reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body.

Ibuprofen is used to reduce fever and treat pain or inflammation
caused by many conditions such as headache, toothache, back pain,
arthritis, menstrual cramps, or minor injury.

Ibuprofen is used in adults and children who are at least 6 months old.
Important information

Ibuprofen can increase your risk of fatal heart attack or stroke,
especially if you use it long term or take high doses, or if you have
heart disease. Do not use this medicine just before or after heart
bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG).

Ibuprofen may also cause stomach or intestinal bleeding, which can be
fatal. These conditions can occur without warning while you are using
ibuprofen, especially in older adults.

Do not take more than your recommended dose. An ibuprofen overdose can
damage your stomach or intestines. Use only the smallest amount of
medication needed to get relief from your pain, swelling, or fever.
Before taking this medicine

Do not use this medicine just before or after heart bypass surgery
(coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG).

Ibuprofen may also cause stomach or intestinal bleeding, which can be
fatal. These conditions can occur without warning while you are using
ibuprofen, especially in older adults.

You should not use ibuprofen if you are allergic to it, or if you have
ever had an asthma attack, hives, or severe allergic reaction after
taking aspirin or an NSAID (including acetaminophen, naproxen, or
others).

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to take this medicine
if you have:

heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or
if you smoke;

a history of heart attack, stroke, or blood clot;

a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding;

asthma;

liver or kidney disease;

fluid retention; or

a connective tissue disease such as Marfan syndrome, Sjogren’s
syndrome, or lupus.

Taking ibuprofen during the last 3 months of pregnancy may harm the
unborn baby.Do not use this medicine without a doctor’s advice if you
are pregnant.

It is not known whether ibuprofen passes into breast milk or if it
could affect a nursing baby. Ask a doctor before using this medicine
if you are breastfeeding.

Do not give ibuprofen to a child younger than 2 years old without the
advice of a doctor.
How should I take ibuprofen?

Use ibuprofen exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by
your doctor. Do not use in larger amounts or for longer than
recommended. Use the lowest dose that is effective in treating your
condition.

Do not take more than your recommended dose. the product overdose can
damage your stomach or intestines. The maximum amount of ibuprofen for
adults is 800 milligrams per dose or 3200 mg per day (4 maximum
doses). Use only the smallest amount needed to get relief from your
pain, swelling, or fever.

A child’s dose of the product is based on the age and weight of the
child. Carefully follow the dosing instructions provided with your
child’s medicine for the age and weight of your child. Ask a doctor or
pharmacist if you have questions.

Take ibuprofen with food or milk to lessen stomach upset.

Shake the oral suspension (liquid) well just before you measure a
dose. Measure liquid medicine with the dosing syringe provided, or
with a special dose-measuring spoon or medicine cup. If you do not
have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.

The ibuprofen chewable tablet must be chewed before you swallow it.

If you use this medicine long-term, you may need frequent medical tests.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not allow
the liquid medicine to freeze.

Read all patient information, medication guides, and instruction
sheets provided to you. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any
questions.
See also:

Ibuprofen dosage information (in more detail)
What happens if I miss a dose?

Since it is used when needed, you may not be on a dosing
schedule. If you are on a schedule, use the missed dose as soon as you
remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next
scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at
1-800-222-1222. Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting,
stomach pain, drowsiness, black or bloody stools, coughing up blood,
shallow breathing, fainting, or coma.
What should I avoid while taking ibuprofen?

Avoid drinking alcohol. It may increase your risk of stomach bleeding.

Avoid taking aspirin while you are taking ibuprofen.

Avoid taking ibuprofen if you are taking aspirin to prevent stroke or
heart attack. it can make aspirin less effective in protecting
your heart and blood vessels. If you must use both medications, take
the product at least 8 hours before or 30 minutes after you take the
aspirin (non-enteric coated form).

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using any cold, allergy, or pain
medicine. Many medicines available over the counter contain aspirin or
other medicines similar to ibuprofen. Taking certain products together
can cause you to get too much of this type of medication. Check the
label to see if a medicine contains aspirin, ibuprofen, ketoprofen, or
naproxen.
Ibuprofen side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction
to the product: rash or hives; sneezing, runny or stuffy nose; wheezing
or trouble breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of a heart attack or
stroke: chest pain spreading to your jaw or shoulder, sudden numbness
or weakness on one side of the body, slurred speech, leg swelling,
feeling short of breath.