How To Use Ibuprofen

Prescription ibuprofen comes in the form of a tablet to be taken by mouth 3-4 times a day for arthritis or every 4-6 hours as directed for pain. Nonprescription ibuprofen comes in the form of a tablet, chewable tablet, and oral suspension to be taken by mouth every 4 to 6 hours as needed for pain or fever. 

You should take ibuprofen with milk or food to reduce the risk of abdominal pain and upset stomach. Swallow the ibuprofen tablets whole with a glass of water. Do not chew or crush the tablets. 

If you are taking ibuprofen oral suspension, shake the bottle well before use. Measure the liquid medicine using a dose measuring device (cup or syringe) and not a household spoon.

Ibuprofen chewable tablets can cause a burning sensation in the mouth. Taking the chewable tablets with food or water can help reduce this.

If you are taking ibuprofen on a regular basis, take your medicine at around the same time every day. 

Read the package label for OTC ibuprofen products carefully. Follow the instructions on your prescription label and use ibuprofen exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not take a higher or lower dose of this medicine or take it more or less frequently than the package directions or what your doctor tells you.

Missed dose: If you are taking ibuprofen on a regular basis and miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose according to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses together to make up for a missed dose.

Storage: Store ibuprofen at room temperature (between 15-30° C or 59-86° F) away from moisture, heat, and direct light in a tightly closed container. Do not store medications in the bathroom where they can be exposed to moisture and heat. Keep all medications safely out of reach of children and pets.

Unused medicine: Unused ibuprofen should be disposed of in a way that children, other people, and pets cannot get to them. Do not throw ibuprofen in the trash or flush it down the toilet. The best way to dispose of expired or unneeded ibuprofen is through a drug take-back program. Learn more about proper medication disposal. 

NOTE: This medication guide is a summary and may not contain all possible drug information on ibuprofen. The information contained here may not be up-to-date. This sheet is for information purposes only. If you have questions about ibuprofen, talk to your doctor or pharmacist for medical advice.

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