You can generally take ibuprofen every 4 to 6 hours as needed for pain or inflammation. For over-the-counter (OTC) ibuprofen, the usual dose is 200 mg to 400 mg per dose. Adults should not exceed 1200 mg in 24 hours without doctor supervision, which is about 6 tablets of 200 mg each. With a doctor's prescription, higher doses (up to 3200 mg per day) may be allowed for severe pain. Some key guidelines:
- Take 200-400 mg every 4-6 hours as needed.
- Do not take doses more frequently than every 4 hours.
- Maximum OTC dose is 1200 mg per day.
- Prescription doses can be higher, up to 3200 mg per day under medical supervision.
- Always try to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time possible.
- Taking ibuprofen with food may reduce stomach irritation.
If you're taking 200 mg tablets three times a day, leave at least 6 hours between doses; if four times a day, leave at least 4 hours between doses. Avoid taking ibuprofen regularly for extended periods without consulting a doctor, as longer use can increase the risk of side effects like stomach ulcers, bleeding, kidney problems, and cardiovascular issues.
