Ibuprofen belongs to a class of medication in the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDs) used for treating fever, pain, and inflammation. The medication is available in generic form. It is available under different brand names, which include Advil, Motrin, and Nurofen. FDA approved Ibuprofen (Motrin) for medical use in the year 1974.
In 1961, Ibuprofen was discovered by Stewart Adams & John Nicolson and was marketed as Brufen. In 1969 it was first sold in the United Kingdom and 1974 in the United States. Ibuprofen is on the list of the world health organization’s essential medicines. In 2019, with more than 21 million prescriptions, it was the 29th most prescribed medicine in the United States.
Medical uses of Motrin (Ibuprofen)
Dosage for Motrin (Ibuprofen)
The recommended adult dose is 200 to 400 mg per day after every 6 hours to treat minor aches, mild to moderate pain, menstrual cramps, and fever. For the treatment of arthritis, the recommended dose is 300 to 800 mg 3 to 4 times daily.
The maximum dose of Ibuprofen is 3.2 grams per day, under the complete guide of your health care physician. Or else, the maximum over-the-counter dosage is 1.2 grams per day depending upon the age, height, weight, and the present medical condition of the patients.
It is not recommended for individuals to use Ibuprofen for more than 10 days to treat pain and for not more than 3 days to treat a fever unless and until directed by your healthcare physician.
For children 6 months to 12 years of age, the recommended dose is 5-19mg/day every 6-8 hours to treat fever and pain. The maximum dose is 40 mg/per day.
Side effects of (Motrin) Ibuprofen
The most common side effects of Ibuprofen are as follows-- rash,
- ringing in the ears (tinnitus),
- headaches,
- dizziness,
- drowsiness,
- abdominal pain,
- nausea,
- diarrhea,
- constipation, and
- heartburn
Warnings and precautions of Motrin (Ibuprofen)
Ibuprofen may cause several allergic reaction, most probably in people who are allergic to aspirin. Symptoms of allergy may include:
- hives
- facial swelling
- Asthma (wheezing)
- shock
- skin reddening
- rash
- blisters
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of an allergic reaction, it is always recommended to seek immediate medical help.
Suddenly stopping the use of this medication may cause certain withdrawal symptoms. Hence, it is always recommended to consult your healthcare physician before starting, stopping, and altering medicine.
Stomach Bleeding Warnings
As the medicine contains NSAIDs which may lead to severe bleeding problems. The chances of bleeding are higher if you-
- Have stomach ulcers
- Take anticoagulant or steroid drug
- Are 60 years and above
- Taking aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen
- Taking longer or more as directed by the physician
If Pregnant or Breastfeeding
Ibuprofen should not be used in the last three months of pregnancy until and unless directed by your healthcare physician, as the use of medication can harm the unborn child or create complications during labor and delivery. While lactation is not recommended, the use of this medication can affect the baby by causing severe breathing problems. Consult your healthcare physician before the use of Ibuprofen.
