Table of Contents
What is Advil?
Advil is categorized as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Its mechanism involves reducing hormones responsible for inflammation and pain within the body.
Advil is employed to alleviate fever and address pain or inflammation arising from various conditions such as headaches, toothaches, back pain, arthritis, menstrual cramps, or minor injuries.
This medication is suitable for use in both adults and children aged 2 years and older. However, for children under 2 years, consulting with a doctor is advisable.
Warnings
It is crucial not to exceed the recommended dosage of Advil. An overdose of ibuprofen can potentially harm the stomach or intestines. Use the smallest effective amount of medication to relieve pain, swelling, or fever.
Before initiating Advil treatment, consider the following:
- Individuals with a history of heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or smoking should exercise caution.
- If you have experienced a heart attack, stroke, blood clot, stomach ulcers, bleeding, liver or kidney disease, asthma, or if you take aspirin for heart attack or stroke prevention, consult with a healthcare professional.
Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult a doctor before using Advil.
Avoid administering Advil to children under 2 years without medical guidance.
Advil Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Warnings (more detail)
How should I take Advil?
Adhere to the instructions on the label or as prescribed by your doctor when using Advil. Utilize the lowest effective dose for your specific condition.
To prevent potential stomach upset, take Advil with food or milk. Ensure proper shaking of the oral suspension (liquid) before measuring a dose. Chew the chewable tablet before swallowing it.
Store Advil at room temperature, shielded from moisture and heat. Do not let the liquid medicine freeze.
Detailed Advil dosage information
What happens if I miss a dose?
Given that Advil is taken as needed, skip any missed dose if it is close to your next scheduled dose. Avoid using two doses simultaneously.
What happens if I overdose?
In case of an overdose, seek emergency medical attention or contact the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, drowsiness, black or bloody stools, coughing up blood, shallow breathing, fainting, or coma.
What to avoid
Consult a doctor or pharmacist before using other medications for pain, fever, swelling, or cold/flu symptoms, as they may contain ingredients similar to ibuprofen (e.g., aspirin, ketoprofen, naproxen).
Refrain from taking aspirin unless specifically advised by your doctor.
Advil side effects
Seek emergency medical help if you experience signs of an allergic reaction (hives, difficulty breathing, swelling in the face or throat) or a severe skin reaction (fever, sore throat, burning eyes, skin pain, red or purple skin rash with blistering and peeling).
Contact your doctor immediately if you notice changes in vision, shortness of breath, swelling, skin rash, signs of stomach bleeding, liver problems, low red blood cells (anemia), or kidney problems.
Common Advil side effects may encompass nausea, vomiting, gas, bleeding, dizziness, or headache.
This is not an exhaustive list of side effects; consult your doctor for medical advice. Report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Advil side effects (more detail)
What other drugs will affect Advil?
Before using Advil, consult your doctor if you are taking an antidepressant, as combining certain antidepressants with NSAIDs may increase the risk of bruising or bleeding.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using ibuprofen with other medications, particularly:
- Cyclosporine
- Lithium
- Methotrexate
- Blood thinners (warfarin, Coumadin, Jantoven)
- Heart or blood pressure medication, including diuretics or “water pills”
- Steroid medicine (e.g., prednisone)
This list is not exhaustive; other drugs may interact with ibuprofen, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed here.
