The amount of ibuprofen you can take in one day depends on whether it is over- the-counter (OTC) or prescription strength:
- For over-the-counter ibuprofen, adults should not exceed 1200 mg per day , typically taken as 200 to 400 mg every 4 to 6 hours as needed, with a maximum of 6 tablets of 200 mg each in 24 hours
- For prescription-strength ibuprofen, the maximum daily dose can be up to 3200 mg per day , divided into three or four doses (e.g., 800 mg every 6 hours), used for more severe pain or chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis
You should always take the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary to reduce the risk of side effects such as stomach irritation, ulcers, kidney problems, or bleeding
. In summary:
Ibuprofen Type| Typical Dose per Administration| Maximum Daily Dose| Frequency
---|---|---|---
Over-the-counter (OTC)| 200–400 mg| 1200 mg| Every 4 to 6 hours
Prescription strength| Up to 800 mg| 3200 mg| Every 6 hours (3-4 times)
If you have been prescribed ibuprofen by a doctor, follow their dosing instructions carefully. If you take OTC ibuprofen, do not exceed 1200 mg per day without medical advice
