In this Article

• What is ibuprofen (Motrin)?
• What are the possible side effects of ibuprofen?
• What is the most important information I should know about ibuprofen?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking ibuprofen?
• How should I take ibuprofen?
• What happens if I miss a dose?
• What happens if I overdose?
• What should I avoid while taking ibuprofen?
• What other drugs will affect ibuprofen?
• Where can I get more information?

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking ibuprofen?

Do not use ibuprofen just before or after heart bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG).

This medicine may cause life-threatening heart or circulation problems such as heart attack or stroke, especially if you use it long term.

This medicine may also cause serious effects on the stomach or intestines, including bleeding or perforation (forming of a hole). These conditions can be fatal and can occur without warning while you are taking ibuprofen, especially in older adults.

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to ibuprofen, aspirin or other NSAIDs.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to take this medication if you have:

• a history of heart attack, stroke, or blood clot;
• heart disease, congestive heart failure, high blood pressure;
• a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding;
• asthma;
• polyps in your nose;
• liver or kidney disease;
• systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE);
• a bleeding or blood clotting disorder; or
• if you smoke.

FDA pregnancy category D. Taking ibuprofen during the last 3 months of pregnancy may harm the unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using ibuprofen.

It is not known whether ibuprofen passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Do not give this medicine to a child without the advice of a doctor.

How should I take ibuprofen?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Do not take more of this medication than is recommended. An overdose of ibuprofen can cause damage to your stomach or intestines. The maximum amount of ibuprofen for adults is 800 milligrams per dose or 3200 mg per day (4 maximum doses). Use only the smallest amount of ibuprofen needed to get relief from your pain, swelling, or fever.

Take ibuprofen with food or milk to lessen stomach upset.

Shake the oral suspension (liquid) well just before you measure a dose. To be sure you get the correct dose, measure the liquid with a marked measuring spoon or medicine cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.

The ibuprofen chewable tablet must be chewed before you swallow it.

If you take ibuprofen for a long period of time, your doctor may want to check you on a regular basis to make sure this medication is not causing harmful effects. Do not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not allow the liquid medicine to freeze.