Ibuprofen: what it does and how to use it safely
Ibuprofen is one of the most common pain relievers you can buy without a prescription. It reduces pain, fever, and inflammation fast. That makes it handy for headaches, muscle aches, menstrual cramps, tooth pain, and fevers. But it’s also a drug you can misuse if you don’t watch the dose and timing.
How much to take — clear, practical dosing
For adults, typical over‑the‑counter doses are 200–400 mg every 4–6 hours as needed. Don’t exceed 1,200 mg in 24 hours unless a doctor tells you otherwise. In some medical settings, doctors may prescribe up to 2,400 mg daily, but that’s not OTC dosing.
For children, dosing is based on weight. A common rule is 10 mg per kg of body weight every 6–8 hours, with a maximum of about 40 mg/kg per day. Always check the product label or ask a pharmacist before giving ibuprofen to a child.
Side effects, risks, and who should be careful
Ibuprofen is generally safe for short-term use, but it can cause stomach upset, ulcers, or bleeding, especially if you take it often or with alcohol. It can also raise blood pressure and affect kidney function in people who already have kidney disease or who take certain medicines.
Avoid ibuprofen if you have an active peptic ulcer, severe heart failure, or a known allergy to NSAIDs. Pregnant people should avoid it in the third trimester and talk to a doctor before using it earlier in pregnancy.
Watch for dangerous interactions: ibuprofen can interfere with low‑dose aspirin’s heart protection and can interact with blood thinners (like warfarin), some blood pressure drugs (ACE inhibitors, ARBs), and certain antidepressants, increasing bleeding risk. If you take prescription meds, ask your doctor or pharmacist first.
If pain or fever doesn’t improve after a few days, or you have black stools, severe belly pain, shortness of breath, swelling, or a rash, stop the medicine and get medical help.
Want to reduce stomach upset? Take ibuprofen with food or milk. Don’t take it on an empty stomach if you often get heartburn or stomach pain.
Can you combine it with acetaminophen (paracetamol)? Short-term use of both (at recommended doses) can be effective for severe pain, but don’t exceed each drug’s daily limits. When in doubt, ask a pharmacist.
Buying online: pick licensed pharmacies, check for a physical address and phone number, read reviews, and avoid sites that sell prescription‑only meds without asking for a prescription. Secure payment and clear return/shipping policies are good signs.
Store ibuprofen at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of reach of children. When used correctly, ibuprofen is a helpful, fast-acting option for many common aches and fevers. If you find yourself relying on it every day, talk to your doctor about safer long-term options.
