Is 800mg of Ibuprofen a Lot? Understanding Dosage, Side Effects, and Overdose Risks
What is the recommended dosage of ibuprofen for adults and children. How can you recognize the symptoms of an ibuprofen overdose. What should you do if you suspect an ibuprofen overdose has occurred. How does ibuprofen interact with other medications and alcohol.
Understanding Ibuprofen: Uses and Recommended Dosages
Ibuprofen, commonly known by brand names such as Advil and Motrin, is a widely used over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It’s primarily used to alleviate inflammation, reduce fever, and manage mild to moderate pain. People often turn to ibuprofen for relief from various conditions, including headaches, back pain, toothaches, arthritis, menstrual cramps, and fevers.
The recommended dosage of ibuprofen varies depending on age and the specific condition being treated. For adults, the standard dosage is one or two 200-milligram (mg) tablets every 4 to 6 hours. It’s crucial to note that adults should not exceed 800 mg at once or 3,200 mg per day. Adults over 60 years old should take the lowest effective dose possible to manage their symptoms, as they have a higher risk of kidney and gastrointestinal side effects.
Ibuprofen Dosage for Children
Determining the safe dosage for children requires knowing the child’s weight and the specific formulation of ibuprofen being used. Ibuprofen for children is available in various forms, including infant drops, liquid, and chewable tablets. It’s essential to read the label carefully and measure doses accurately.
- For infants 6-12 months old: Dosage depends on weight, consult a doctor
- For children 1-12 years old: Dosage ranges from 5-10 mg per kg of body weight, every 6-8 hours
- Never exceed 4 doses in 24 hours for children
It’s important to emphasize that ibuprofen should not be given to children under 6 months old without medical supervision.
Recognizing the Signs of Ibuprofen Overdose
While ibuprofen is generally safe when used as directed, taking too much can lead to an overdose. An overdose can cause dangerous side effects, including damage to the stomach or intestines. In rare cases, it can even be fatal. Therefore, it’s crucial to be aware of the symptoms of an ibuprofen overdose.
Mild Symptoms of Ibuprofen Overdose
Initial symptoms of an ibuprofen overdose may be mild and can include:
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Heartburn
- Nausea and vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Rash
- Sweating
Severe Symptoms of Ibuprofen Overdose
In more severe cases of overdose, the following symptoms may occur:
- Difficult or slow breathing
- Convulsions
- Hypotension (low blood pressure)
- Seizures
- Little to no urine production
- Severe headache
- Coma
Is it possible to have an ibuprofen overdose without visible symptoms? Yes, some individuals may not experience immediate or noticeable symptoms after taking too much ibuprofen. This highlights the importance of adhering to recommended dosages and seeking medical attention if an overdose is suspected, even in the absence of obvious symptoms.
Immediate Actions to Take in Case of Suspected Overdose
If you suspect that you or someone else has taken more than the maximum recommended dose of ibuprofen, it’s crucial to act quickly. Here are the steps you should take:
- Contact your local poison control center immediately. In the United States, call 1-800-222-1222.
- Stay on the line and follow the instructions provided by the poison control experts.
- If possible, have the following information ready:
- The person’s age, height, weight, and gender
- How much ibuprofen was ingested
- When the last dose was taken
- Whether the person also took other drugs, supplements, or consumed alcohol
- For online guidance, use the poison center’s webPOISONCONTROL tool.
- In case of severe symptoms or if the person is unresponsive, call emergency services immediately.
Why is it important to act quickly in case of a suspected ibuprofen overdose? Prompt action can significantly reduce the risk of severe complications and improve the chances of a full recovery. The sooner medical professionals can intervene, the better they can manage potential side effects and prevent long-term damage.
Drug Interactions and Increased Overdose Risks
Certain medications can increase the risk of ibuprofen overdose or exacerbate its side effects. It’s crucial to be aware of these interactions and consult with a healthcare provider before combining ibuprofen with other medications.
Medications That May Interact with Ibuprofen
- Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): Can interfere with NSAID metabolism and increase the risk of bleeding
- Antihypertensives: May increase the risk of kidney damage
- Aspirin: Can increase the risk of serious side effects
- Diuretics: Increase the risk of kidney failure when combined with ibuprofen
- Lithium: Increases the risk of lithium toxicity
- Methotrexate: Increases the risk of methotrexate toxicity
- Anticoagulants: Can increase the risk of serious gastrointestinal bleeding
How does alcohol consumption affect the risk of ibuprofen side effects? Mixing ibuprofen with alcohol can significantly increase the risk of serious side effects, particularly stomach or intestinal bleeding. It’s advisable to avoid alcohol consumption when taking ibuprofen or any other NSAID.
Safe Usage and Precautions for Ibuprofen
To minimize the risk of adverse effects and potential overdose, it’s essential to use ibuprofen safely and responsibly. Here are some key precautions to keep in mind:
- Always follow the recommended dosage on the label or as prescribed by your doctor
- Do not exceed the maximum daily dose
- Take ibuprofen with food or milk to reduce the risk of stomach upset
- Avoid taking multiple NSAID medications simultaneously
- Be cautious when using ibuprofen long-term, as it may increase the risk of cardiovascular events
- If you have a history of stomach ulcers, bleeding disorders, or kidney problems, consult your doctor before using ibuprofen
- Pregnant women should avoid ibuprofen, especially during the third trimester
Why is it important to take ibuprofen with food? Taking ibuprofen with food or milk can help protect the stomach lining and reduce the risk of gastrointestinal side effects such as stomach upset, ulcers, and bleeding.
Long-term Effects of Ibuprofen Use
While ibuprofen is generally safe for short-term use, prolonged or excessive use can lead to various health complications. Understanding these potential long-term effects is crucial for those who rely on ibuprofen for chronic pain management.
Potential Long-term Side Effects
- Increased risk of heart attack and stroke
- Gastrointestinal ulcers and bleeding
- Kidney damage or failure
- Liver problems
- High blood pressure
- Anemia
- Allergic reactions
How can you minimize the risks associated with long-term ibuprofen use? If you need to use ibuprofen regularly for chronic conditions, work closely with your healthcare provider to monitor your health and explore alternative pain management strategies. Your doctor may recommend periodic blood tests to check kidney and liver function, as well as strategies to protect your stomach lining.
Alternatives to Ibuprofen for Pain Relief
For those concerned about the potential risks of ibuprofen or looking for alternatives, there are several other options for managing pain and inflammation. These alternatives may be particularly useful for individuals with contraindications to ibuprofen use or those seeking to reduce their reliance on NSAIDs.
Over-the-Counter Alternatives
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol): Effective for pain relief but doesn’t reduce inflammation
- Topical analgesics: Creams, gels, or patches containing ingredients like menthol or capsaicin
- Naproxen: Another NSAID with a longer duration of action
Natural and Non-Pharmacological Approaches
- Heat and cold therapy
- Physical therapy and exercise
- Acupuncture
- Massage
- Mindfulness and relaxation techniques
- Dietary changes to reduce inflammation
Which alternative pain relief method is most effective? The effectiveness of alternative pain relief methods can vary depending on the individual and the type of pain being treated. It’s often beneficial to combine multiple approaches and work with a healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive pain management strategy tailored to your specific needs.
The Importance of Proper Medication Storage and Disposal
Proper storage and disposal of ibuprofen and other medications play a crucial role in preventing accidental overdoses, particularly in households with children or pets. By following best practices for medication management, you can significantly reduce the risk of unintended ingestion and environmental contamination.
Storage Guidelines
- Keep all medications, including ibuprofen, in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
- Store medications in their original containers with labels intact
- Use child-resistant caps and keep medications out of reach of children and pets
- Avoid storing medications in bathrooms or kitchens due to humidity and temperature fluctuations
- Regularly check expiration dates and dispose of expired medications properly
Safe Disposal Methods
- Check for local medication take-back programs or events in your community
- Use DEA-authorized collectors for safe disposal of unused medications
- If no take-back options are available, follow these steps for household disposal:
- Mix medications with an unpalatable substance like used coffee grounds or cat litter
- Place the mixture in a sealed plastic bag or container
- Throw the container in your household trash
- Remove or scratch out all personal information on empty medication containers before disposing
Why is it important to avoid flushing medications down the toilet or sink? Flushing medications can contaminate water sources and harm aquatic life. Many water treatment plants are not equipped to remove pharmaceutical compounds from the water supply, potentially leading to environmental and health concerns.
By understanding the proper use, risks, and management of ibuprofen, individuals can make informed decisions about their pain relief options and minimize the potential for adverse effects. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice, especially when dealing with chronic pain or considering long-term use of any medication.
Can You Overdose on Ibuprofen? Symptoms, Treatment, and More
Taking too much ibuprofen can result in an overdose. This can cause dangerous side effects such as damage to your stomach or intestines. In rare cases, an overdose can be fatal.
You should always take ibuprofen exactly as directed on the label or as recommended by your doctor.
If you think that you or someone you know has overdosed on ibuprofen, contact your local poison center or your local emergency services. In the United States, you can reach the poison center by calling 1-800-222-1222.
Ibuprofen is an over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (OTC NSAID) used to relieve inflammation, fever, and mild pain.
People take this medication to treat:
- headaches
- back pain
- toothaches
- arthritis
- menstrual cramps
- fevers
Some brand names for ibuprofen are:
- Motrin
- Advil
Read on to learn how to safely use this medication as well as the signs of an overdose.
Your recommended dose of ibuprofen depends on your age.
For adults
The recommended dosage for adults is one or two 200-milligram (mg) tablets every 4 to 6 hours. Adults should not exceed 800 mg at once or 3,200 mg per day.
Adults over 60 years old should take as little ibuprofen as possible to manage their symptoms. Older adults have a higher risk of kidney and gastrointestinal side effects.
For children
To determine the safe dosage for children, you need to know the child’s weight and the formulation of ibuprofen you’re using.
Ibuprofen for children is available in:
- infant drops
- liquids
- chewable tablets
Liquid measurements are given in milliliters (mL). Make sure to read the label and measure carefully.
Never give your child more than four doses in one day. The following chart shows how much ibuprofen a child can consume depending on their weight.
Weight | 50-mg/1. 25-mL infant drops dosage | 100-mg/5-mL liquid dosage | 50-mg/1 chewable tablet dosage |
12 to 17 pounds | 1.25 mL (50 mg) | Ask your doctor | Ask your doctor |
18 to 23 pounds | 1.875 mL (75 mg) | Ask your doctor | Ask your doctor |
24 to 35 pounds | 2.5 mL (100 mg) | 5 mL (100 mg) | 2 tablets (100 mg) |
36 to 47 pounds | 3.75 mL (150 mg) | 7.5 mL (150 mg) | 3 tablets (150 mg) |
48 to 59 pounds | 5 mL (200 mg) | 10 mL (200 mg) | 4 tablets (200 mg) |
60 to 71 pounds | n/a | 12.5 mL (250 mg) | 5 tablets (250 mg) |
72 to 95 pounds | n/a | 15 mL (300 mg) | 6 tablets (300 mg) |
over 95 pounds | n/a | 20 mL (400 mg) | 8 tablets (400 mg) |
For babies
Do not give ibuprofen to children under 6 months old.
For infants ages 6 months to 1 year, the safe dose of the infant formulation depends on their weight.
Weight | 50-mg/1.25-mL infant drops dosage |
under 12 pounds | Ask your doctor before administering this medication. |
12 to 17 pounds | 1.25 mL (50 mg) |
18 to 23 pounds | 1.875 mL (75 mg) |
Drug interactions
Certain medications can increase your risk of having an overdose of ibuprofen.
According to research, do not take any of the following medications with ibuprofen without first talking with your doctor:
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which can interfere with the metabolism of NSAIDs while also increasing pain and bleeding
- antihypertensives, which are medications for high blood pressure that may increase the risk of kidney damage
- aspirin, which may increase the risk of serious side effects
- diuretics (water pills), which increase the risk of kidney failure when combined with ibuprofen
- lithium, which increases the risk of toxicity
- methotrexate, which increases the risk of toxicity
- anticoagulants (blood thinners), such as warfarin, because they can increase your risk of serious gastrointestinal bleeding
Mixing ibuprofen with alcohol can also increase your risk of having serious side effects, like stomach or intestinal bleeding.
Not everyone will experience symptoms of an ibuprofen overdose right away. Some people won’t have any visible symptoms at all.
If you do experience symptoms of an ibuprofen overdose, they’re usually mild. Mild symptoms may include:
- tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- heartburn
- nausea
- vomiting
- stomach pain
- diarrhea
- dizziness
- blurred vision
- rash
- sweating
Severe symptoms can include:
- difficult or slow breathing
- convulsions
- hypotension (low blood pressure)
- seizures
- little to no urine production
- severe headache
- coma
If you or someone you know has taken more than the maximum recommended dose of ibuprofen, contact your local poison center. In the United States, you can reach the poison center by calling 1-800-222-1222. You can call this number 24 hours a day. Stay on the line for further instructions.
If possible, have the following information ready:
- the person’s age, height, weight, and gender
- how much ibuprofen was ingested
- when the last dose was taken
- whether the person also took other drugs, supplements, or had any alcohol
You can also receive guidance by using the poison center’s webPOISONCONTROL online tool.
TIP
- Text “POISON” to 202-677-7600 to save the contact information for poison control to your smartphone.
If you can’t access a phone or computer, go to the nearest emergency room immediately. Do not wait until symptoms start. Some people who overdose on ibuprofen will not show symptoms right away.
At the hospital, doctors will monitor breathing, heart rate, and other vital signs. A doctor may insert a tube through the mouth to look for internal bleeding.
You may also receive the following treatments:
- medications that make you throw up
- decontamination of the stomach with activated charcoal
- benzodiazepines to control seizures
- breathing support, such as oxygen or a breathing machine (ventilator)
- intravenous fluids
- antihypertensive medications to reduce blood pressure
Children who consume more than 400 mg/kilogram (kg) of ibuprofen are at a higher risk of overdose and will likely require hospitalization. If they consume 100 mg/kg or less, they may be monitored at home.
An overdose of ibuprofen can cause severe problems in the gastrointestinal tract. These include:
- inflammation
- bleeding
- ulcers
- stomach or intestinal perforation, which can be fatal
- liver or kidney failure
Taking high doses of ibuprofen over long periods of time can also increase your risk of having a stroke or heart attack.
With prompt medical treatment, you’re likely to recover from an ibuprofen overdose. However, some people develop liver, kidney, or stomach issues. People with a prior history of ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding should not take NSAIDS like ibuprofen.
Always read product labels carefully and take the smallest amount of ibuprofen possible that will help relieve your symptoms.
An adult should not take more than 3,200 mg of ibuprofen per day. A safe dose for children is much less than that. If you or someone you know has taken more than the recommended dose, call your local poison center or your local emergency services.
If you experience symptoms of an ulcer after taking ibuprofen, stop taking ibuprofen and call your doctor.
Can You Get High on Ibuprofen? | Addiction Help
Evoke Wellness Drug Abuse
Ibuprofen is the active ingredient in many over-the-counter pain medications. Like all other chemical substances, ibuprofen does have some potential for abuse – though it is not habit-forming, and never considered dangerous when taken exactly as intended. Ibuprofen might be prescribed by a medical professional in very high doses to treat significant pain. This is an ideal option when it comes to treating pain in men and women who have struggled with opioid abuse in the past and cannot safely take opioid narcotic painkillers. The drug itself is classified as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory, also known as an NSAID.
Ibuprofen Is Not a Mood or Mind-Altering Substance
Some of the health conditions that ibuprofen is frequently used to treat include mild pain (and moderate pain in some cases), chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, fever and aches and pains that result from the common cold or flu, and common inflammation (which can be caused by a variety of things). While taking ibuprofen orally in a pill or tablet form is the most common way to consume the medication, it can also be taken in a powdered form, a liquid form, or as a suppository. If a person abuses ibuprofen by taking more than the recommended dose, he or she runs the risk of experiencing a serious health-related complication – the most severe being drug-related overdose.
Side Effects of Excessive Ibuprofen Use
Damage to the physical body can occur quickly and without warning. The issue is that ibuprofen abuse is often very difficult to detect because there are not many signs or symptoms associated with excessive use other than the long-term side effects. Additionally, ibuprofen abuse is most common among adolescents and teenagers, seeing as the medication is readily accessible, affordable, and found in most household medicine cabinets. Adolescents might take excessive amounts of this medication in an attempt to achieve some sort of high, but they often simply end up doing severe damage to their physical bodies instead.
You Will Overdose Trying to Get High on Ibuprofen
Can anyone get high on ibuprofen if it is taken in high doses? No – on its own, ibuprofen will not produce a high. However, the medication is commonly combined with other chemical substances – which ultimately makes it more dangerous. The most common long-term side effects of excessive ibuprofen abuse include:
- Heart problems including an increased risk of heart attack
- Permanent liver damage
- Permanent kidney damage
- Bleeding of the bowels and stomach lining
Overdosing on Ibuprofen is Possible
If someone attempts to take more ibuprofen than is recommended to achieve some sort of high, he or she will be sorely disappointed. Consuming an excessive amount of this over-the-counter pain reliever is more likely to result in a life-threatening overdose than a high of any kind. Some symptoms of ibuprofen-related overdose include:
- Extreme confusion
- Disorientation
- Extreme anxiety
- Paranoia
- A decrease in red blood cells, also known as anemia
- Kidney problems
- Liver problems
- Swelling of the face and appendages resulting from an allergic reaction
- Vomiting and diarrhea (both might appear black)
- Seizures
- Coma
- Death
Many side effects go hand-in-hand with long-term opioid abuse. If you or someone you know has been misusing ibuprofen in any capacity, seeking professional help is necessary.
Evoke Wellness and Addiction Recovery
In many cases, an individual who has been abusing an OTC medication like ibuprofen is also abusing other chemical substances – like opioids or alcohol – at the same time. If you know someone who has been combining ibuprofen and addictive drugs, seeking professional help is of the utmost importance. Upon admission to our treatment program, we ask each client a series of health-related questions to determine which treatment methods are going to be the most useful. If it is determined that one of our clients was using excessive amounts of ibuprofen in the past we will avoid using this medication to avoid doing permanent damage to the kidneys or liver. No matter what your personal needs, we are available to help. For more information on our individualized program of drug addiction recovery, call Evoke Wellness today for more information.
Tagged addiction, drugs, high, ibprofen, Opioids, otc, over the counter, pain relief
4 people ordered this product. Description Burana is an analgesic and antipyretic drug.
0046
BURANA release form:
BURANA indications for use:
Method of administration and doses of BURANA (Buran):
BURANA (Burana) pharmacological action:
BURANA (Buran) contraindications:
Overdose of BURANA :
Pregnancy and lactation:
BURANA storage conditions:
Terms of BURANA dispensing from pharmacies:
20360. Turku. Finland. ReviewsThere are no reviews yet for this product. Viewed ItemsBurana 400mg – tablets – 30 pcs. |