Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Non-prescription ibuprofen is indicated for the reduction of fever and the relief of minor aches and pains. This includes headaches, muscle aches, arthritis, menstrual periods, the common cold, toothaches, and backaches. Ibuprofen belongs to the class of medications known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Its mechanism of action involves the inhibition of the body’s production of prostaglandins, which are responsible for pain, fever, and inflammation.
Uses and Dosage
Before taking ibuprofen, review the product package for over-the-counter use. Should you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Ibuprofen should be taken orally every 4 to 6 hours with a full glass of water (8 ounces/240 milliliters), unless otherwise directed by your physician. Avoid lying down for at least 10 minutes after taking the medication. If you experience stomach upset, taking ibuprofen with food, milk, or an antacid may help alleviate symptoms.
The dosage of ibuprofen is determined by your medical condition and response to treatment. To reduce the risk of stomach bleeding and other side effects, take the medication at the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible. Do not exceed the recommended dose or frequency of administration, as specified by your physician or the product label.
For chronic conditions like arthritis, follow your doctor’s instructions for continued use.
When ibuprofen is administered to children, the dose is based on their weight. Consult the package instructions for appropriate dosing.
In some cases, such as arthritis, it may take up to two weeks of regular ibuprofen use to experience the full therapeutic benefits of the medication.
If ibuprofen is used on an “as needed” basis, it is best to take it at the first sign of pain. Waiting until the pain becomes severe may diminish the efficacy of the medication.
If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you suspect a serious medical condition, seek medical attention immediately.
If you are using nonprescription ibuprofen to treat a child or yourself for fever or pain, contact your doctor immediately if fever lasts longer than three days, or pain lasts longer than 10 days, or if your symptoms worsen.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- constipation
- gas or bloating
- dizziness
- nervousness
- ringing in the ears
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- unexplained weight gain
- shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- swelling of the abdomen, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- diarrhea
- fever, rash, blisters, or peeling skin
- itching
- hives
- swelling of the eyes, face, throat, arms, or hands
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- hoarseness
- excessive tiredness
- pain in the upper right part of the stomach
- nausea
- loss of appetite
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- flu-like symptoms
- pale skin
- fast heartbeat
- cloudy, discolored, or bloody urine
- back pain
- difficult or painful urination
- blurred vision, changes in color vision, or other vision problems
- headache, stiff neck, fever
Caution
Prior to taking ibuprofen, inform your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have an allergy to it, aspirin, or other NSAIDs, such as celecoxib or naproxen, or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients that could cause allergic reactions or other issues.
Before using this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, particularly if you have a history of asthma, blood disorders, such as anemia or bleeding/clotting problems, growths in the nose, heart disease, high blood pressure, liver disease, stroke, or throat/stomach/intestinal problems, including bleeding, heartburn, or ulcers.
In some cases, kidney problems may arise with the use of NSAID medications, such as ibuprofen. These issues are more likely to occur if you are an older adult, dehydrated, have heart failure or kidney disease, or take certain medications. To prevent dehydration, drink plenty of fluids as directed by your doctor and inform them immediately if there is a change in the amount of urine.
This drug may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Alcohol or marijuana can intensify these effects. It is recommended to avoid driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities that require alertness until it is safe to do so.
This medication may cause stomach bleeding. Daily use of alcohol and tobacco, particularly when combined with this medication, may increase the risk of stomach bleeding. Limit alcohol consumption and stop smoking.
This medication may increase sensitivity to sunlight. Limit sun exposure, avoid tanning beds and sun lamps, and use sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors. Notify your doctor immediately if you experience sunburn or skin blisters/redness.
Older adults may be at a higher risk for stomach/intestinal bleeding, kidney problems, heart attack, and stroke while taking this medication.
For women of childbearing age, discuss the potential benefits and risks with their doctor(s) prior to using this medication. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
This medication may harm an unborn baby and may cause complications during labor and delivery. It is not recommended for use after 20 weeks of pregnancy until delivery. If the use of this medication is necessary between 20 and 30 weeks of pregnancy, it is recommended to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time. It is not recommended to use this medication after 30 weeks of pregnancy.
This medication passes into breast milk but is unlikely to harm a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Form and Strength
Advil Liqui-Gel is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
Advil Liqui-Gel gel capsule:
- 200mg
FAQ
How many Advil Liqui-Gels can I take?
Children and adults 12 years of age and older can take 1 capsule every 4 to 6 hours while symptoms persist. If pain or fever does not respond to 1 capsule, 2 capsules may be used. Do not exceed 6 capsules in 24 hours unless directed by a doctor.
How long does Advil Liqui-Gel take to work?
Liqui-gels may start working in a little more than 20 minutes.
Resources
- https://www.advil.com/our-products/advil-pain/advil-liqui-gels-minis/#:~:text=Children%20and%20adults%2012%20years,unless%20directed%20by%20a%20doctor
- https://www.goodrx.com/ibuprofen/how-long-does-ibuprofen-take-to-work
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/ibuprofen-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20070602?p=1
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-94173/advil-liqui-gel-oral/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682159.html
- https://www.drugs.com/pro/advil-liqui-gels.html
