The general guidelines for taking ibuprofen are as follows:
- Adults and teenagers can take 400 mg every 4 to 6 hours as needed for mild to moderate pain or fever. For menstrual cramps, adults may take 400 mg every 4 hours as needed
- Over-the-counter ibuprofen usually comes in 200 mg tablets. The typical dose is one or two 200 mg tablets (200-400 mg) three times a day, with at least 6 hours between doses. Some cases may require up to 600 mg taken up to 4 times a day under medical supervision
- The maximum over-the-counter dose for adults is generally 1200 mg per day. Prescription doses can be higher, up to 3200 mg per day, divided into three or four doses
- For children, the dose is based on body weight and must be determined by a doctor. Usually, it is about 10 mg per kg of body weight every 6 to 8 hours, up to 40 mg per kg per day
- Ibuprofen should be taken with food or milk to reduce stomach upset
- If used regularly, ibuprofen should not be taken for more than 10 days without medical advice. Long-term use (over 30 days) should be under doctor supervision due to risks of side effects
- Studies suggest that 400 mg three times a day provides maximum pain relief for many conditions, and taking higher doses or more frequent doses may increase risk of side effects without added benefit
In summary, for most adults, ibuprofen can be taken every 4 to 6 hours as needed, with typical doses of 200-400 mg, not exceeding 1200 mg per day over the counter, or up to 3200 mg per day if prescribed. Always follow the dosing instructions on the package or given by a healthcare provider and avoid prolonged use without medical supervision.
