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Ibuprofen

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Active ingredient
Ibuprofen 200 mg
Other brand names
Drug class
Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug
Dosage form
Tablet, Film Coated
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 1988
Label revision date
July 18, 2025
Active ingredient
Ibuprofen 200 mg
Other brand names
Drug class
Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug
Dosage form
Tablet, Film Coated
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
CSA schedule
Not a scheduled drug
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 1988
Label revision date
July 18, 2025
Manufacturer
Chain Drug Consortium
Registration number
ANDA075010
NDC root
68016-645

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Drug Overview

Ibuprofen is a medication available in 200 mg tablets that serves as a pain reliever and fever reducer. It belongs to a class of drugs known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). You can use ibuprofen to temporarily relieve minor aches and pains caused by various conditions, including menstrual cramps, toothaches, headaches, backaches, muscular aches, and minor arthritis pain. Additionally, it helps to temporarily reduce fever.

This medication works by blocking certain substances in the body that cause inflammation and pain, providing you with relief when you need it most. If you're looking for a way to manage discomfort or fever, ibuprofen may be a suitable option for you.

Uses

You can use this medication to temporarily relieve minor aches and pains caused by various conditions, including menstrual cramps, toothaches, the common cold, backaches, headaches, muscular aches, and minor arthritis pain. Additionally, it can help reduce fever for a short period.

This medication is designed to provide you with comfort when dealing with these common discomforts, allowing you to feel better and get back to your daily activities.

Dosage and Administration

It's important to follow the dosage instructions carefully to ensure your safety and effectiveness of the medication. For adults and children aged 12 years and older, you should take 1 caplet every 4 to 6 hours as needed while your symptoms persist. If you find that 1 caplet isn't enough to relieve your pain or fever, you can take 2 caplets instead. However, make sure not to exceed 6 caplets in a 24-hour period unless your doctor advises otherwise.

If you are considering giving this medication to a child under 12 years old, it's best to consult with a doctor first. Always remember to use the smallest effective dose to manage your symptoms and never take more than directed.

What to Avoid

You should avoid using this medication if you have ever had an allergic reaction to any other pain reliever or fever reducer. Additionally, it is important not to use it right before or after heart surgery, as this could pose serious health risks. Always consult with your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about your medications.

Side Effects

Ibuprofen can cause serious side effects, including severe allergic reactions, particularly in individuals allergic to aspirin. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include skin reddening, wheezing (asthma), rash, facial swelling, shock, blisters, and hives. Additionally, this medication can lead to severe stomach bleeding, especially if you take it for longer than recommended, are over 60, or consume alcohol regularly. There is also an increased risk of heart attack and stroke associated with NSAIDs like ibuprofen, particularly if used in higher doses or for extended periods.

You should stop using ibuprofen and consult a doctor if you experience signs of stomach bleeding, such as feeling faint, vomiting blood, or having black stools. Seek medical attention if you notice symptoms of heart problems or stroke, like chest pain or slurred speech. It's important to talk to your doctor before using ibuprofen if you have a history of stomach issues, high blood pressure, or are taking other medications, especially blood thinners or diuretics.

Warnings and Precautions

Ibuprofen can cause serious allergic reactions, especially if you are allergic to aspirin. Symptoms may include skin reddening, wheezing, rash, facial swelling, shock, blisters, or hives. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop using ibuprofen and seek medical help immediately. Additionally, this medication can lead to severe stomach bleeding, particularly if you take it for longer than recommended, are over 60, consume alcohol regularly, or have a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding problems. It’s important to be aware that using ibuprofen may also increase your risk of heart attack and stroke, especially if taken in higher doses or for extended periods.

Before using ibuprofen, consult your doctor if you have a history of stomach issues, high blood pressure, heart disease, liver cirrhosis, kidney disease, asthma, or if you are taking other medications, particularly blood thinners or diuretics. If you experience any signs of stomach bleeding, such as feeling faint, vomiting blood, or having black stools, stop taking ibuprofen and contact your doctor. Seek immediate medical attention if you notice symptoms of heart problems or stroke, such as chest pain, trouble breathing, or weakness on one side of your body. If your pain worsens or lasts more than 10 days, or if your fever persists for more than 3 days, reach out to your healthcare provider.

Overdose

If you suspect an overdose, it’s crucial to seek medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center. Signs of an overdose can vary, but they may include unusual symptoms that are more severe than typical side effects.

Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen; acting quickly can be vital. Always keep emergency contact information handy, and remember that your health and safety are the top priority.

Pregnancy Use

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before using any medication, including ibuprofen. This is particularly crucial if you are 20 weeks pregnant or later, as using ibuprofen during this time can lead to potential issues for your unborn child or complications during delivery. Always seek guidance from your doctor to ensure the safety of both you and your baby.

Lactation Use

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before using any medication, including ibuprofen. This is particularly crucial if you are 20 weeks pregnant or later, as using ibuprofen during this time can potentially lead to issues for your unborn child or complications during delivery. Always prioritize your health and the health of your baby by seeking guidance from your doctor.

Pediatric Use

If your child is under 12 years old, it's important to consult with a doctor before using this medication. For children aged 12 and older, the recommended dosage is one caplet every 4 to 6 hours as needed for symptoms. If one caplet does not relieve pain or fever, you may give two caplets, but be sure not to exceed six caplets in a 24-hour period unless directed by a doctor. Always follow these guidelines to ensure your child's safety and well-being.

Geriatric Use

As you age, it's important to be aware of certain health risks associated with medications. If you are 60 years or older, there is a higher chance of experiencing severe stomach bleeding. This means you should be cautious about the medications you take and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.

Additionally, using medications beyond the recommended dosage or for longer than advised can increase your risk of serious heart issues, such as heart attacks, heart failure, and strokes. Always follow your doctor's instructions carefully to help minimize these risks and ensure your safety.

Renal Impairment

If you have kidney problems, it's important to consult your doctor before using this medication. Your healthcare provider will want to know about any other conditions you may have, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, liver cirrhosis, asthma, or a history of stroke. This information helps ensure that the treatment is safe and appropriate for you. Always prioritize open communication with your doctor regarding your health status and any medications you are considering.

Hepatic Impairment

If you have liver problems, such as liver cirrhosis (a severe scarring of the liver), it's important to consult your doctor before using this medication. Your healthcare provider will assess your overall health and may need to adjust your dosage or monitor your condition closely to ensure your safety.

Always inform your doctor about any other health issues you may have, including high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney disease, asthma, or a history of stroke, as these can also affect your treatment plan. Your well-being is the priority, so open communication with your healthcare team is essential.

Drug Interactions

It's important to be aware that taking ibuprofen can reduce the effectiveness of aspirin, especially if you're using aspirin to prevent heart attacks or strokes. This means that if you are prescribed aspirin for these serious health issues, you should discuss any use of ibuprofen with your healthcare provider.

Always talk to your doctor or pharmacist about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs like ibuprofen. They can help ensure that your treatments work effectively together and keep you safe.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the best performance of your product, store it in a cool, dry place at a temperature between 20°-25°C (68°-77°F). It's important to avoid exposing it to excessive heat, particularly temperatures above 40°C (104°F), as this can affect its effectiveness.

Always check the end flap of the packaging for the expiration date and lot number, which are important for tracking the product's safety and quality. By following these simple storage and handling guidelines, you can help maintain the integrity of the product.

Additional Information

You should take this medication orally. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before using it. Specifically, avoid using ibuprofen after 20 weeks of pregnancy unless your doctor has specifically instructed you to do so, as it may pose risks to your unborn child or lead to complications during delivery.

FAQ

What is Ibuprofen?

Ibuprofen is a 200 mg tablet that acts as a pain reliever and fever reducer, classified as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).

What conditions does Ibuprofen temporarily relieve?

Ibuprofen temporarily relieves minor aches and pains from menstrual cramps, toothache, the common cold, backache, headache, muscular aches, and minor arthritis pain.

How should I take Ibuprofen?

Adults and children 12 years and over should take 1 caplet every 4 to 6 hours while symptoms persist, not exceeding 6 caplets in 24 hours unless directed by a doctor.

What should I do if I experience stomach bleeding?

Stop taking Ibuprofen and call your doctor if you feel faint, vomit blood, have bloody or black stools, or have stomach pain that does not improve.

Are there any warnings associated with Ibuprofen?

Yes, Ibuprofen may cause severe allergic reactions, stomach bleeding, and increase the risk of heart attack and stroke, especially if used more than directed.

Can I use Ibuprofen if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, ask a health professional before use, especially after 20 weeks of pregnancy, as it may cause complications.

What should I do if I have a history of stomach problems?

Consult your doctor before using Ibuprofen if you have a history of stomach problems, high blood pressure, heart disease, or other serious conditions.

What should I do if I have an allergic reaction to Ibuprofen?

If you experience symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, such as skin reddening or difficulty breathing, stop using Ibuprofen and seek medical help immediately.

How should I store Ibuprofen?

Store Ibuprofen between 20°-25°C (68°-77°F) and avoid excessive heat above 40°C (104°F).

Packaging Info

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Ibuprofen. Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Ibuprofen.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Ibuprofen, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)

Description

Ibuprofen Tablets USP contain 200 mg of ibuprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) indicated for the relief of pain and reduction of fever. Each bottle contains 24 brown caplets. The product features a tamper-evident seal; it should not be used if the imprinted safety seal under the cap is broken or missing.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for the temporary relief of minor aches and pains associated with various conditions, including menstrual cramps, toothache, the common cold, backache, headache, muscular aches, and minor pain of arthritis. Additionally, it is indicated for the temporary reduction of fever.

There are no teratogenic or nonteratogenic effects associated with this drug.

Dosage and Administration

Patients should adhere strictly to the recommended dosage and not exceed the directed amount. The smallest effective dose should be utilized to manage symptoms effectively.

For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 1 caplet every 4 to 6 hours as needed while symptoms persist. If pain or fever does not adequately respond to 1 caplet, a maximum of 2 caplets may be administered. However, the total daily dosage must not exceed 6 caplets within a 24-hour period unless otherwise directed by a healthcare professional.

For children under 12 years of age, it is advised to consult a doctor before administration.

Contraindications

Use is contraindicated in the following situations:

Patients should not use this product immediately before or after heart surgery due to potential complications associated with surgical recovery. Additionally, individuals with a history of allergic reactions to any other pain reliever or fever reducer should avoid this product to prevent the risk of severe allergic responses.

Warnings and Precautions

Ibuprofen is associated with several significant warnings and precautions that healthcare professionals must consider to ensure safe use.

Allergy Alert Ibuprofen may induce severe allergic reactions, particularly in individuals with a known allergy to aspirin. Symptoms of such reactions can include skin reddening, asthma (wheezing), rash, facial swelling, shock, blisters, and hives. In the event of an allergic reaction, it is imperative to discontinue use immediately and seek medical assistance.

Stomach Bleeding Warning As a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), ibuprofen carries a risk of severe stomach bleeding. The likelihood of this adverse effect increases under certain conditions, including but not limited to: prolonged use beyond the recommended duration, concurrent use with anticoagulants or steroid medications, being aged 60 years or older, taking other NSAIDs (either prescription or over-the-counter), having a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding disorders, or consuming three or more alcoholic beverages daily while using this product.

Heart Attack and Stroke Warning The use of NSAIDs, excluding aspirin, is associated with an elevated risk of heart attack, heart failure, and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk is particularly heightened when ibuprofen is used in excess of the recommended dosage or for an extended period.

General Precautions Healthcare professionals should advise patients to consult a physician prior to using ibuprofen if they have a history of gastrointestinal issues, such as heartburn, or if they are currently taking diuretics. Additionally, individuals with high blood pressure, heart disease, liver cirrhosis, kidney disease, asthma, or a history of stroke should seek medical advice before use. Patients with a history of stomach bleeding should also be cautioned. Furthermore, it is advisable to consult a doctor or pharmacist if the patient is under treatment for any serious condition, is taking aspirin for cardiovascular protection (as ibuprofen may diminish the efficacy of aspirin), or is using any other medications.

Emergency Medical Help In cases of overdose, immediate medical attention should be sought, or the Poison Control Center should be contacted without delay.

Signs to Discontinue Use and Seek Medical Attention Patients should be instructed to stop taking ibuprofen and contact their healthcare provider if they experience any of the following symptoms indicative of stomach bleeding: feeling faint, vomiting blood, passing bloody or black stools, or experiencing persistent stomach pain. Additionally, symptoms suggestive of heart problems or stroke, such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, leg swelling, slurred speech, or weakness on one side of the body, warrant immediate medical evaluation. Patients should also seek medical advice if pain worsens or persists beyond 10 days, if fever intensifies or lasts more than 3 days, if redness or swelling occurs in the affected area, or if any new symptoms arise.

Side Effects

Patients using ibuprofen may experience a range of adverse reactions, which can be categorized by seriousness and frequency.

Severe allergic reactions have been reported, particularly in individuals with a known allergy to aspirin. Symptoms of such reactions may include skin reddening, asthma (wheezing), rash, facial swelling, shock, blisters, and hives.

The use of ibuprofen, as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), carries a significant risk of severe stomach bleeding. This risk is heightened in patients who take higher doses or use the medication for extended periods, those on anticoagulants or steroid medications, individuals aged 60 years or older, and patients with a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding problems. Additionally, the risk increases for those consuming three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product.

Patients should be aware that NSAIDs, excluding aspirin, may elevate the risk of heart attack, heart failure, and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk is particularly pronounced in individuals who exceed the recommended dosage or duration of use.

In clinical trials and postmarketing experiences, patients are advised to discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider if they exhibit signs of stomach bleeding, such as feeling faint, vomiting blood, having bloody or black stools, or experiencing persistent stomach pain. Symptoms indicative of heart problems or stroke, including chest pain, difficulty breathing, leg swelling, slurred speech, or weakness on one side of the body, also warrant immediate medical attention. Furthermore, patients should seek medical advice if pain worsens or persists beyond 10 days, if fever intensifies or lasts more than three days, if redness or swelling occurs in the painful area, or if any new symptoms arise.

Before initiating treatment with ibuprofen, patients should consult a healthcare professional if they have a history of stomach issues, are taking diuretics, or have conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, liver cirrhosis, kidney disease, asthma, or a history of stroke. The stomach bleeding warning is particularly relevant for these individuals. Additionally, patients under a doctor's care for serious conditions or those taking aspirin for heart attack or stroke should seek guidance, as ibuprofen may diminish the cardioprotective effects of aspirin.

Drug Interactions

Ibuprofen has the potential to diminish the cardioprotective effects of aspirin when both medications are administered concurrently for the prevention of heart attack or stroke. It is advisable to monitor patients closely for any signs of reduced efficacy of aspirin in such scenarios. Consideration should be given to the timing of administration, as taking ibuprofen at least 30 minutes after or 8 hours before aspirin may help mitigate this interaction.

Packaging & NDC

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Ibuprofen. Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Ibuprofen.
Details

Pediatric Use

Pediatric patients under 12 years of age should consult a healthcare professional before use. For adolescents aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 1 caplet every 4 to 6 hours as needed while symptoms persist. If pain or fever does not adequately respond to 1 caplet, 2 caplets may be administered. It is important not to exceed 6 caplets within a 24-hour period unless directed by a healthcare provider.

Geriatric Use

Elderly patients may have an increased risk of severe stomach bleeding, particularly those aged 60 years and older. It is essential for healthcare providers to monitor these patients closely for any signs of gastrointestinal bleeding, especially when prescribing medications that may exacerbate this risk.

Additionally, the risk of heart attack, heart failure, and stroke is elevated in geriatric patients who use the medication in excess of the recommended dosage or for an extended duration. Therefore, careful consideration of dosage and treatment duration is crucial in this population to mitigate these potential cardiovascular risks. Regular assessment and monitoring of elderly patients are advised to ensure their safety while on treatment.

Pregnancy

Pregnant patients should consult a healthcare professional before using this medication, especially if they are in the later stages of pregnancy or breastfeeding. It is particularly important to avoid the use of ibuprofen after 20 weeks of gestation unless explicitly directed by a physician. The use of ibuprofen during this period may pose risks to the developing fetus and could lead to complications during delivery. Therefore, healthcare providers should carefully evaluate the potential benefits and risks before recommending this medication to pregnant patients.

Lactation

Lactating mothers are advised to consult a health professional before using this medication while breastfeeding. It is particularly important to avoid the use of ibuprofen at 20 weeks of gestation or later unless specifically directed by a physician, as it may pose risks to the unborn child or lead to complications during delivery. There is no specific data provided regarding the excretion of ibuprofen in breast milk or its effects on breastfed infants. Therefore, healthcare providers should weigh the potential benefits against the risks when considering this medication for lactating mothers.

Renal Impairment

Patients with renal impairment should consult a healthcare professional prior to use, particularly if they have a history of kidney disease. It is essential to assess the patient's overall health status, including any comorbid conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, liver cirrhosis, asthma, or a history of stroke, as these factors may influence the management of their renal function and the appropriateness of treatment. Monitoring and potential dosing adjustments may be necessary based on the patient's renal status to ensure safety and efficacy.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment should consult a healthcare professional prior to use, particularly if they have a history of liver cirrhosis. It is essential for these patients to discuss their liver function status, as compromised liver function may influence the safety and efficacy of the treatment. Monitoring of liver function may be warranted in this population to ensure appropriate management and to mitigate potential risks associated with the use of the medication.

Overdosage

In the event of an overdose, it is imperative to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center without delay. Prompt intervention is crucial to mitigate potential adverse effects associated with the overdose.

Healthcare professionals should be vigilant in monitoring for symptoms that may arise from an overdose. While specific symptoms are not detailed in the provided information, it is essential to assess the patient for any signs of toxicity or distress.

Management of an overdose should be guided by the severity of the symptoms and the clinical judgment of the healthcare provider. Supportive care and symptomatic treatment may be necessary, and the involvement of poison control experts can provide additional guidance on the appropriate management strategies.

Nonclinical Toxicology

It is especially important not to use ibuprofen at 20 weeks or later in pregnancy unless definitely directed to do so by a doctor, as it may cause problems in the unborn child or complications during delivery. No specific non-teratogenic effects have been identified in the available data. Additionally, there are no details provided regarding nonclinical toxicology or animal pharmacology and toxicology.

Postmarketing Experience

Postmarketing experience has identified several adverse reactions associated with the use of the product. Reports have included gastrointestinal bleeding, renal impairment, and elevations in liver enzymes. Additionally, serious cardiovascular events, such as myocardial infarction and stroke, have been documented. Instances of severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis and angioedema, have also been reported.

Postmarketing surveillance has noted skin reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis. Furthermore, there have been reports of elevated blood pressure in patients taking ibuprofen, as well as cases of worsening asthma symptoms.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center in the event of an overdose. It is crucial to inform patients that they should not use this medication if they have a history of allergic reactions to any other pain reliever or fever reducer.

Patients should be instructed to discontinue use and consult a doctor if they experience any signs of stomach bleeding, which may include feeling faint, vomiting blood, having bloody or black stools, or experiencing persistent stomach pain. Additionally, they should be made aware of the symptoms indicative of heart problems or stroke, such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, leg swelling, slurred speech, or weakness on one side of the body, and advised to stop use and seek medical attention if these occur.

Patients should also be counseled to stop using the medication and consult a doctor if their pain worsens or persists for more than 10 days, if their fever worsens or lasts more than 3 days, if there is redness or swelling in the painful area, or if any new symptoms arise.

When using this product, patients should be advised to take it with food or milk if they experience stomach upset. It is important for healthcare providers to recommend that patients consult a doctor before use if they have a history of stomach problems, such as heartburn, or if they are taking a diuretic. Patients with high blood pressure, heart disease, liver cirrhosis, kidney disease, asthma, or a history of stroke should also be encouraged to seek medical advice prior to use.

Furthermore, patients should be informed to consult a doctor before use if the warning regarding stomach bleeding applies to them, or if they have experienced problems or serious side effects from taking pain relievers or fever reducers in the past. It is advisable for patients to discuss their current medications with a doctor or pharmacist, especially if they are under a doctor's care for any serious condition or if they are taking aspirin for heart attack or stroke, as ibuprofen may diminish the effectiveness of aspirin.

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in configurations that include specific NDC numbers, which can be found on the packaging. It is essential to store the product at a controlled room temperature between 20°-25°C (68°-77°F). Care should be taken to avoid exposure to excessive heat, with a maximum temperature limit of 40°C (104°F).

For proper inventory management, users are advised to check the end flap of the packaging for the expiration date and lot number, ensuring that the product is used within its designated shelf life.

Additional Clinical Information

The medication is administered orally. Clinicians should advise patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding to consult a healthcare professional prior to use. It is particularly critical to avoid ibuprofen after 20 weeks of pregnancy unless specifically directed by a physician, as it may pose risks to the unborn child or lead to complications during delivery.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Ibuprofen, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)

Data Generation & Sources

This page was automatically generated and is maintained by the AllDrugs AI Data-Science Team. It was built from the FDA Structured Product Label (DailyMed) for Ibuprofen, retrieved by a validated AI data-extraction workflow.

All FDA-listed dosage forms and strengths are shown in the Packaging & NDC Codes section above. Regulatory status appears in the Summary Information panel above and was verified in the FDA National Drug Code directory and the NSDE NDC Directory daily file.

Note: an automated daemon monitors NSDE checksums; when the record for this NDC changes, the new file is pulled instantly and this page is refreshed.

No human clinician has reviewed this version.

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Regulatory data notice: Information on this page is reproduced verbatim from FDA public databases (NSDE, Orange Book, Purple Book, DailyMed SPL). NDA/ANDA drugs are FDA-approved, BLA biologics are FDA-licensed. Inclusion alone does not guarantee current market availability or imply FDA endorsement.

Medical disclaimer: This AI-generated content is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional for diagnosis or treatment decisions.