Ibuprofen Dosage: Safe Limits, Side Effects, and What to Watch For

When you reach for ibuprofen, a common nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug used to reduce pain, fever, and inflammation. Also known as Advil or Motrin, it’s one of the most taken over-the-counter meds in the world. But taking too much—or too often—can hurt you more than help. Most adults start with 200 to 400 mg every 4 to 6 hours, not exceeding 1,200 mg in a day without a doctor’s order. That’s about three standard 200 mg pills. Stick to that. Go higher, and you risk stomach bleeding, kidney damage, or even a heart attack.

NSAIDs, a class of drugs that includes ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin, work by blocking enzymes that cause pain and swelling. But they don’t care if you’re taking them for a headache or arthritis—you’re still putting stress on your gut and kidneys. People with high blood pressure, heart disease, or a history of ulcers need to be extra careful. Even if you feel fine, long-term daily use without medical supervision is a bad idea. And never mix ibuprofen with alcohol. That combo is a fast track to stomach bleeding. Kids get different doses based on weight, not age. Always check the label or ask a pharmacist. If you’re giving it to a child, use the measuring tool that comes with the bottle. A kitchen spoon? That’s how overdoses happen.

overdose symptoms, signs you’ve taken too much ibuprofen include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, dizziness, ringing in the ears, and blurry vision. Severe cases lead to seizures, kidney failure, or coma. If you suspect an overdose, call emergency services immediately. Don’t wait for symptoms to get worse. And if you’re taking other meds—like blood pressure pills, antidepressants, or blood thinners—ibuprofen can interact badly. Always check with your pharmacist before mixing.

There’s no magic number that works for everyone. Your body weight, age, liver function, and other health issues all change how your body handles ibuprofen. If you’re using it for more than 10 days straight for pain, or more than 3 days for fever, it’s time to see a doctor. This isn’t a long-term fix. It’s a short-term tool. The posts below cover real cases: people who took too much, others who found safer alternatives, and how ibuprofen stacks up against other pain relievers. You’ll find what works, what doesn’t, and what you should never do again.