Advil (Ibuprofen)

What is Advil?

Ibuprofen belongs to a family of drugs known as non steroidal-anti inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs.

What is Advil used for?

Ibuprofen is indicated for reduction of fever and treatment of inflammation and pain caused by headaches, menstrual cramps, arthritis, dental pain, athletic injuries etc. It is also used for providing relief from minor pains caused by flu or common cold.

How does Advil work?

Ibuprofen blocks the enzymes that make prostaglandin which is responsible for causing pain and swelling.

How to use Advil

Ibuprofen should be taken in the manner prescribed by the doctor.  Do not take Ibuprofen tablets for more than the recommended duration or dosage.

You must take Ibuprofen with food or milk in order to avoid stomach upset. You can chew the tablet. Take it with a full glass of water.

If you are taking the liquid suspension, shake the oral suspension well before use and remember to measure the liquid in the special dose measuring device only.

Advil warnings and precautions

Do not take Ibuprofen if you are allergic to it or have just had a heart bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass graft / CABG).

Do inform your doctor if you have suffered from heart diseases, hypertension, asthma, nose polyps, circulation disorders, stomach ulcers or intestine perforation.

Ibuprofen is likely to make you drowsy after the consumption, therefore do not take up any task that requires alertness. Limit consumption of alcohol, while on the dosing schedule of this medicine.

Keep yourself adequately covered while you are taking this medicine as it causes over sensitivity to the sun and harsh lighting.

Exercise caution when you are administering this medicine to the elderly.

Pregnant and lactating women are advised to talk to their doctors before taking this medicine.

What do I do if I have missed a Advil dose?

If you have missed your Ibuprofen dose, take it when you remember. However, if it s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your routine.

What do I do if I have taken a Advil overdose?

If you have taken an Ibuprofen overdose you should seek medical attention.

Advil interactions

Before taking Ibuprofen, inform your doctors about all the prescribed and non prescribed medicines, herbal concoctions, diet aids etc you have been taking and might need to continue taking in tandem with Ibuprofen. Do not take this medicine along with antidepressants like citalopram, duloxetine, escitalopram, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, paroxetine, sertraline, or venlafaxine.

Also tell your doctor if you are taking NSAIDs such as aspirin, diclofenac, etodolac, indomethacin, meloxicam, naproxen, piroxicam; ACE inhibitors like benazepril, fosinopril, enalapril, lisinopril, quinapril, ramipril; lithium, diuretics such as furosemide, methotrexate, steroids like prednisone, or blood thinners like warfarin.

Do not start taking any new medicine without telling your doctor.

Advil side effects

Ibuprofen side effects include hives, sore throat, fever, headache, nausea, stomach ache, loss of appetite, yellowing of eyes or skin, dark colored urine or stools, bloody or tarry stools, feeling short of breath, coughing up blood, breathing difficulty, slurred speech, chest pain, vision problems, decreased urination, bruising, tingly feeling, pain, numbness, stiffness in the neck, increased sensitivity to light, problems with balance; swelling of face, lips, tongue or throat and other allergic reactions.

Less serious side effects of Ibuprofen may include upset stomach, gas, bloating, mild heartburn, constipation, diarrhea, nervousness, dizziness, blurred vision, or skin rash.