Ibuprofen 200mg per caplet, regular strength non-steroidal anti inflammatory drug (NSAID)
*Also sold as Advil and Motrin
Adults – 1 to 2 caplets every 4 to 6 hours as needed for fever or pain. Do not exceed 6 caplets in 24 hours, unless directed by a doctor.
Children (under 12 years old) – Ask your doctor.
- Fever reducer
- Pain reliever
Ibuprofen is a Non-Steroidal Anti Inflammatory Drug (NSAID) and may cause stomach bleeding. This risk is increased if you:
- Are over age 60
- Have a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding problems
- Take blood thinners or steroids
- Take other NSAIDs (aspirin, naproxen, ibuprofen or others)
- Drink 3 or more alcoholic beverages every day while taking this medication
- Take the medication for longer than directed or take more than the recommended dose
Do not use Ibuprofen if you have ever had an allergic reaction to a pain reliever or fever reducer.
Do not use right before or after heart surgery.
- If you have had problems when taking other pain relievers or fever reducers
- If you have serious stomach problems or a history of ulcers
- If you have high blood pressure
- If you have heart or kidney disease
- If you are over 60 years old
- If you have bleeding problems
- If you are taking diuretics (such as Lasix), blood thinners (such as Coumadin), steroids or other NSAIDs
- If you have any other chronic or serious medical problems
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding – may cause serious complications during the last three months of pregnancy
- Black or bloody stools, vomiting blood or feeling faint – these may be signs of stomach bleeding
- Pain gets worse or lasts for more than 10 days
- Fever lasts more than three days
- Stomach pain gets worse
- You have redness or swelling in the area that is causing pain
- Any new symptoms appear
- May cause a severe allergic reaction. These signs may include: hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, shock, rash, blisters or wheezing. If these symptoms occur, discontinue use and seek medical attention right away.
- Take medication with food or milk to decrease the chances of stomach upset.
- Long term continuous use may increase the risk of heart attack or stroke.
Sources:
"Motrin IB." Motrin Family of Products. 2006. McNeil Consumer Healthcare Division of McNeil PPC, Inc. 17 Nov 2006
"Advil Tablets." Advil. 2006. Wyeth Consumer Healthcare. 17 Nov 2006.
