Ibuprofen is a common NSAID (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug) used for pain, fever, and inflammation. You’ve probably seen it as 200 mg tablets sold under brand names like Advil or Motrin. It works by blocking chemicals that cause pain and swelling, and it often helps faster than many other options for inflammatory pain.
For adults, over-the-counter ibuprofen usually comes in 200 mg pills. Typical dosing is 200–400 mg every 4–6 hours as needed. Don’t take more than 1,200 mg in a 24-hour period unless your doctor tells you otherwise — some prescription plans go up to 2,400 mg but only under medical supervision.
Kids’ doses depend on weight. Always use a pediatric product or follow the doctor’s instructions. Never guess a child’s dose from an adult tablet.
When will it start working? Most people feel relief within 30–60 minutes after an oral dose, with peak effect around 1–2 hours. Topical gels can help local muscle or joint pain without as much systemic risk.
Not everyone should take ibuprofen. Skip it or check with a provider if you have a history of stomach ulcers, active bleeding, severe heart disease, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or advanced kidney disease. It can raise the risk of bleeding and hurt the kidneys, especially if you’re dehydrated or already on certain drugs.
Watch for drug interactions. Ibuprofen can interfere with blood thinners (like warfarin), some blood pressure medicines (ACE inhibitors, ARBs), diuretics, lithium, and certain antidepressants — and that can be dangerous. If you drink a lot of alcohol, combining it with ibuprofen raises your chance of stomach bleeding.
Pregnancy notes: avoid ibuprofen in the third trimester. If you’re pregnant or trying to get pregnant, ask your clinician before using it.
Want fewer stomach issues? Take ibuprofen with food or a small snack. If you need long-term pain control, check with a doctor — chronic use calls for monitoring blood pressure, kidney function, and possible stomach protection.
Alternatives: If you can’t take NSAIDs, acetaminophen (paracetamol) can relieve pain and fever but won’t reduce inflammation the same way. For topical pain, creams and gels with NSAIDs or other active ingredients may help with fewer systemic effects.
Serious warning signs: stop the drug and get urgent help if you have chest pain, sudden weakness, slurred speech, black stools, severe stomach pain, or signs of allergic reaction like swelling or difficulty breathing.
Short-term use for headaches, minor aches, and fever is usually fine for most people. For ongoing pain, repeated doses, or if you’re on other medicines, talk to a healthcare professional so they can recommend the safest plan for you.
