Ibuprofen (By Mouth)

Ibuprofen (eye-byoo-PROE-fen)

Treats pain caused by arthritis, menstrual cramps, and other problems. Also reduces fever. Belongs to the group of drugs called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Brand Name(s):

Advil, Motrin Children's, Motrin IB, Advil Children's, Motrin Infants', Motrin Junior, Ibu-2, Q-Profen, Proprinal, Ibu-200, A-G Profen, Midol Cramp Formula, Bufen, Motrin Migraine Pain, Addaprin
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to ibuprofen, aspirin, or other pain and arthritis medicines, such as Indocin®, Naprosyn® or Aleve®, Tolectin®, or Clinoril®. The reaction may have included wheezing or feeling short of breath, hives, rash, or swelling in the face.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet, Liquid, Chewable Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much to take and how often.
• You may take the medicine with food, milk, or antacids (such as Maalox® or Mylanta®) so it does not upset your stomach.
• Take the medicine with a full glass of water.
• Shake the oral liquid before using.
• Carefully measure your dose of oral liquid with a marked measuring spoon or medicine cup.
• You must chew the chewable tablet completely before you swallow it.

If a dose is missed:

• Use the missed dose as soon as you remember.
• If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use your medicine and skip the missed dose.
• You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not freeze the oral liquid.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• You should not use ibuprofen with aspirin, products that contain aspirin, or other pain and arthritis medicine, including naproxen (Aleve®).
• Ibuprofen can cause stomach bleeding. Drinking alcohol can make this worse. If you have 3 or more drinks of alcohol every day, ask your doctor if you should use ibuprofen. One drink of alcohol is the same as 4 ounces of wine, 12 ounces of beer, or 1 ounce of hard liquor (gin, whiskey, and others).
• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using Coumadin®.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Talk to your doctor before using ibuprofen if you have high blood pressure, liver or kidney disease, heart failure, or ulcers or other stomach problems.
• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before using this medicine. You should not use ibuprofen during the last 3 months of pregnancy.
• This medicine may cause ulcers and stomach bleeding. This can happen without warning signs. You may need to see your doctor for regular check-ups while using this medicine.
• You can buy ibuprofen without a doctor's prescription, but you should talk to your doctor before you start using it. Do not use the medicine more that 10 days (if treating pain) or 3 days (if treating fever) unless you have talked to your doctor.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Severe rash or hives, or red peeling skin
• Swelling in the face or around the eyes
• Wheezing or trouble breathing
• Bloody or black tarry stools
• Severe stomach pain or bloody vomit
• Bloody or cloudy urine
• Unexplained bruising or bleeding

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Dizziness
• Nausea or mild stomach pain
• Constipation
• Ringing in the ears
• Swelling in the feet or legs

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.