Advil OTC (Ibuprofen - Generic Non Rx)

Description

Indications

Ibuprofen is used to reduce fever and alleviate minor aches and pains stemming from headaches, muscle aches, arthritis, menstrual periods, the common cold, toothaches, and backaches. Classified as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), ibuprofen operates by inhibiting the body’s production of a substance responsible for pain, fever, and inflammation.

Uses and Dosage

Take this medication orally, typically every 4 to 6 hours, accompanied by a full glass of water (8 ounces/240 milliliters), unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.

Refrain from lying down for at least 10 minutes after ingesting the medication. In the event of stomach upset, consume the medication with food, milk, or an antacid.

The prescribed dosage is determined by your medical condition and response to treatment. To minimize the risk of stomach bleeding and other potential side effects, use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible. Avoid increasing the dose or exceeding the recommended frequency, as directed by your doctor or indicated on the package label.

For persistent conditions such as arthritis, adhere to the prescribed regimen.

When administering ibuprofen to children, the dose is contingent upon the child’s weight. Refer to the package instructions to determine the appropriate dose for your child’s weight.

For specific conditions like arthritis, it may take up to two weeks of regular drug administration to experience the full benefits.

If taking this medication on an “as-needed” basis, bear in mind that pain relief is most effective when the medication is taken at the initial signs of pain. Delaying until the pain intensifies may diminish the medication’s efficacy.

Seek immediate medical assistance if your condition persists, worsens, or if you suspect a serious medical problem. If using the nonprescription product for fever or pain, consult your doctor promptly if the fever worsens or persists for more than 3 days, or if pain exacerbates or persists beyond 10 days.

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

Caution

• Before initiating ibuprofen treatment, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you may have, including allergies to ibuprofen, aspirin, or other NSAIDs, as well as any other allergies you may have. This product may contain inactive ingredients that can trigger allergic reactions or other complications.
• Prior to taking this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, particularly if you have a history of asthma, blood disorders, nasal polyps, heart disease, high blood pressure, liver disease, stroke, or throat/stomach/intestinal issues.
• The use of NSAID medications, including ibuprofen, may lead to kidney problems. The risk is higher if you are dehydrated, have heart failure or kidney disease, are an older adult, or are taking specific medications. Follow your doctor’s guidance to stay hydrated, and promptly inform your doctor if there is a change in your urine output.
• This medication may induce dizziness or drowsiness. Consuming alcohol or marijuana can intensify these effects. Refrain from driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities that require alertness until you can do so safely.
• Stomach bleeding is a potential side effect of this medicine. The combined daily use of alcohol and tobacco may heighten the risk of stomach bleeding. Restrict alcohol intake and cease smoking. Seek advice from your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
• Increased sensitivity to the sun is possible with this medication. Minimize sun exposure, avoid tanning booths and sunlamps, and use sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors. Notify your doctor immediately if you experience sunburn or skin blisters/redness.
• Older adults may face a higher risk of stomach/intestinal bleeding, kidney problems, heart attack, and stroke when using this drug.
• For women of childbearing age, discuss the benefits and risks of this medication with your doctor before use. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. This medication may harm an unborn baby and affect normal labor/delivery. Its use is not recommended from 20 weeks until delivery. If necessary between 20 and 30 weeks of pregnancy, use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time possible. Avoid use after 30 weeks of pregnancy.
• While this medication passes into breast milk, it is unlikely to harm a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Form and Strength

Advil OTC is available in the following forms and strengths:

• Advil OTC tablet:
  • 200 mg
• ibuprofen tablet:
  200 mg

FAQ

What’s the difference between Advil and Tylenol?

Tylenol is only effective at relieving pain and fever, but Advil relieves inflammation in addition to pain and fever.

How long does it take for Advil to kick in?

Advil gets absorbed quickly and begins working within about 30 minutes. You may start feeling its full effectiveness within 1 to 2 hours.

Resources:

1. https://www.advil.com/faqs-en/advil-pain/side-effects/#:~:text=Does%20Advil%20make%20you%20sleepy,habit%20forming%20sleep%20aid%2C%20diphenhydramine
2. https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-long-does-ibuprofen-last-7487690#:~:text=Ibuprofen%20(Advil%20or%20Motrin)%20gets,vary%20from%20person%20to%20person
3. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682159.html
4. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-6143-9368/advil-oral/ibuprofen-oral/details
5. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/ibuprofen-oral-route/description/drg-20070602
6. https://www.drugs.com/advil.html