Is ibuprofen safe to take occasionally?

“It’s not without risk, but you can feel pretty safe taking it for about three days,” she says. “Take no more than 400 to 600 milligrams, three times a day, with food. Otherwise, it can ruin your stomach.” And just because you can get ibuprofen over the counter doesn’t mean that it shouldn’t be treated like medication.

Is it safe to take one ibuprofen a day?

To avoid the potential short- or long-term effects of taking too much ibuprofen, do not take more than your recommended dose. The absolute maximum daily dose for adults is 3200 mg. Do not take more than 800 mg in a single dose. Only use the smallest dose needed to alleviate your swelling, pain, or fever.

How often is it safe to take ibuprofen?

Adults can take a dose of OTC ibuprofen every 4 to 6 hours. When taking ibuprofen, be sure not to exceed the maximum daily dosage or to take it for more than 10 days. Dosing for children depends on body weight. Ibuprofen may not be recommended if you have certain health conditions or are taking specific medications.

What can I take instead of ibuprofen?

If you’re concerned about the level of pain medicine you’re taking, here are a few things you might try instead.

• Acetaminophen or aspirin.
• Omega-3 fatty acids.
• Turmeric.
• Acupuncture.
• Exercise and mindful movement.
• Meditation.
• More sleep (or coffee, in a pinch)

Should I eat before I take ibuprofen?

Eat before taking ibuprofen. Although, ibuprofen doesn’t have side effects and it is generally treated as a safe medication to consume, in some rare cases there may be a side effect. It is related to the stomach issues and there is an easy fix. The best way to protect yourself is to eat before taking ibuprofen.

What is a good substitute for ibuprofen?

Ginger is well known as an effective substitute for ibuprofen. In a double-blind comparative study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine in 2009, ginger was as effective as ibuprofen in relieving menstrual pain in women (10).

How much ibuprofen does it take to overdose?

Do not take more than your recommended dose. An ibuprofen overdose can damage your stomach or intestines. The maximum amount of ibuprofen for adults is 800 milligrams per dose or 3200 mg per day (4 maximum doses). Use only the smallest amount needed to get relief from your pain, swelling, or fever.