Painkillers, ibuprofen
How to take ibuprofen
Make sure youuseibuprofenas directed on the label or leaflet, or as instructed by a health professional.
How much you can take depends on your age, the type ofibuprofen you're taking and how strong it is.
For example:
- adults can usually takeone or two200mg tablets every four to six hours, but shouldn't take more than 1,200mg(six 200mg) tablets in the space of 24 hours
- children under 16 may need to take a lower dose depending on their age; check the packet or leaflet, or ask a pharmacist or doctor for advice
The painkilling effect of ibuprofen begins soon after a dose is taken, but the anti-inflammatory effect can sometimes take up to three weeks to get the best results.
Ibuprofen shouldn't be used to treat conditions that are mainly related to inflammation.
Don't take more than the recommended dose ifit isn't relieving your symptoms.
Adults can take paracetamol at the same time asibuprofenif necessary, but this isn't recommended for children. For more details, see Can I take paracetamol and ibuprofen together? .
Contact your GP or call NHS 111 if your symptoms get worse or last more than three days despite taking ibuprofen.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
Read about ibuprofen, a painkiller available over the counter without a prescription.
Types of ibuprofen
You can buy most types of ibuprofen from supermarkets, general retail outletsor pharmacies. Some types and pack sizes are only available from pharmacy counters, and some only on prescription. Ibuprof
Who can take ibuprofen
Some people should avoid using ibuprofen and others should use it with caution.If you have any queries about using ibuprofen or any other medicines, speak to your GP or pharmacist, or call NHS 111 .
How to take ibuprofen
Make sure youuseibuprofenas directed on the label or leaflet, or as instructed by a health professional. How much you can take depends on your age, the type ofibuprofen you're taking and how strong i
Interactions with medicines, food and alcohol
Ibuprofen can react unpredictably with certain other medicines. This can affect how well either medicine works and increase the risk of side effects. Check the leaflet that comes with your medicine t
Side effects of ibuprofen
Ibuprofen can cause a number of side effects. You shouldtake the lowest possible dose for the shortest possible time needed to control your symptoms. See the patient information leaflet that comes wi
Overdoses of ibuprofen
Taking too much ibuprofen, known as an overdose, can be very dangerous. If you've taken more than the recommendedmaximum dose, go to your nearestaccident and emergency (A&E) department as soon a
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