Overview Of Ibuprofen (Advil)

Ibuprofen (Advil) is an over-the-counter pain reliever that belongs to a family of drugs known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatories. As the name suggests, ibuprofen reduces inflammation in the body, and it is frequently used for muscle aches, headaches, and menstrual pain. It is safe for use in adults and children over six months old. However, ibuprofen should not be given to children under two years old without doctor approval. Pediatric doses are based on weight, and the recommended dose for adults is no more than eight hundred milligrams per dose up to a maximum of four doses (3200 milligrams in total) per day. If necessary, doctors can offer prescription-strength dosages.

Ibuprofen (Advil) uses, side effects, and precautions are discussed below.

What Is Advil?

Ibuprofen (Advil) was discovered in 1961, and it was first sold in the United Kingdom in 1969. The medication was not available in the United States until 1974. In 2016, more than twenty-one million ibuprofen prescriptions were written in America, and it ranked thirty-five on the list of the most commonly prescribed medicines for that year. Advil works by reducing the activity of an enzyme called cyclooxygenase, and this inhibits the body's ability to produce prostaglandins, hormones that contribute to both inflammation and pain. Advil is usually taken orally, though it can also be administered intravenously in the hospital. After a patient is given a dose, it could take as long as sixty minutes for pain relief to be felt.

Learn about the class of medication ibuprofen belongs to next.

Class of Medication

Ibuprofen is classified as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine. Other medications in this group include acetylsalicylic acid, naproxen, and nabumetone. Anti-inflammatories are used to treat fever, inflammation, and mild to moderate pain. Ibuprofen is available without a prescription, though stronger doses can be prescribed by doctors if necessary. As previously stated, this medication works by blocking an enzyme (cyclooxygenase) that makes prostaglandins, which are substances that promote pain and inflammation. When this enzyme is blocked and cannot produce prostaglandins, inflammation and the pain it causes can be effectively reduced.

Continue reading to learn about the common ways in which Advil is used next.