Ibuprofen
MOTRIN, ADVIL
What it isNonselective COX-1 and COX-2 inhibitor; pain, fever and inflammation.
Why this oneShort action and pediatric liquid formulations make it the flexible OTC NSAID for fever and brief pain.
What limits itGI bleeding, kidney injury and cardiovascular risk rise with exposure. Taken before aspirin it can blunt platelet effect; lithium also rises.
FDA-approved for
- pain/inflammation (1974)
FDA label
Read the full label on DailyMed ↗
| FDA dosing | Population | Start | Target | Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pain/fever (OTC, weight- or age-based) | Children | 24–35 lb (2–3 yr): 1 tab; 36–47 lb (4–5 yr): 1½ tab; 48–59 lb (6–8 yr): 2 tab; 60–71 lb (9–10 yr): 2½ tab; 72–95 lb (11 yr): 3 tab | 4 doses/day |
Renal Undefined
Hepatic Undefined
Repeat every 6–8 hours as needed; do not use more than 4 times a day
Instructions
- Chew or crush tablets completely before swallowing
- Use weight to dose if possible, otherwise age
- Under 24 lb / under 2 yr: ask a doctor
- Do not give more than directed
Pregnancy Undefined
Lactation Undefined
⚠ BOXED WARNINGS
- Cardiovascular thrombotic events
- Gastrointestinal bleeding, ulceration and perforation
Cost, est. cash$4–$80/month
Generic entry1985
Classes and tags
Clinical profile
Legacy pregnancy categoryMultiple / indication-, trimester- or formulation-dependent
Defining liabilityGI bleeding, kidney injury, hypertension and fluid retention; many agents increase lithium concentrations.
Mechanism of action: Ibuprofen ballicule
Open Ibuprofen in the interactive console ↗
Memory aids: mascots and interaction avatars
“The N said... NSAID”
