Ibuprofen
Drug Name(s): Rx & OTC: Advil, Motrin, generic
Class: NSAIDs
- OTC used to relieve pain and fever as well as symptoms of osteoarthritis (OA).
- Prescription strength used to treat symptoms of OA and inflammatory conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).
Dosage
Form(s): Capsule, tablet, oral suspension
OTC: 200 to 400 mg every 4 to 6 hours as needed, no more than 1,200 mg a day unless directed by physician
Rx: 400 to 800 mg every 4 to 6 hours, no more than 3,200 mg a day
Dosages for children: The dosages listed above are those typically prescribed for adults aged 18-65. Dosages for children can vary. Ask your doctor about the appropriate dosage for your child.
Special Instructions
For OTC: Do not take for more than 10 days for pain or more than 3 days for fever unless directed by a doctor.
Do not take with other prescription or over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Take at the same time every day. Take with food or an antacid.
Potential Side Effects
Abdominal cramps, pain or discomfort; diarrhea; dizziness; drowsiness; gastrointestinal bleeding; headache; heartburn; high blood pressure; nausea or vomiting; peptic ulcer; swelling of feet; rash; ringing in the ears
Be Aware
- Before taking any type of NSAID, tell your doctor if you drink alcohol or take blood thinners (including warfarin), ACE inhibitors, lithium or furosemide. Also report any sensitivity or allergy to aspirin or similar drugs.
- All non-aspirin NSAIDs may cause an increased risk of serious blood clots, heart attack and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk increases with dose and duration of use. Patients who have or who are at risk for cardiovascular disease are at greater risk for these complications.
- NSAIDs increase the risk of serious gastroinestinal side effects, including bleeding, ulceration, and gastric or intestinal perforation, which can be fatal.
- Do not take NSAIDs late in pregnancy.
