Motrin

What is Motrin?

Motrin (ibuprofen) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body.

Motrin is used to reduce fever and treat pain or inflammation caused by many conditions such as headache, toothache, back pain, arthritis, menstrual cramps, or minor injury.

Motrin may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Important information about Motrin

Motrin may cause life-threatening heart or circulation problems such as heart attack or stroke, especially if you use it long term. Do not use Motrin just before or after heart bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG).

Get emergency medical help if you have chest pain, weakness, shortness of breath, slurred speech, or problems with vision or balance.

This medicine may also cause serious effects on the stomach or intestines, including bleeding or perforation (forming of a hole). These conditions can be fatal and can occur without warning while you are taking Motrin, especially in older adults.

Call your doctor at once if you have symptoms of stomach bleeding such as black, bloody, or tarry stools, or coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds.

Do not take more Motrin than is recommended. An overdose of ibuprofen can cause damage to your stomach or intestines. Use only the smallest amount of Motrin needed to get relief from your pain, swelling, or fever.

Before taking Motrin

Do not use Motrin just before or after heart bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG).

Motrin may cause life-threatening heart or circulation problems such as heart attack or stroke, especially if you use it long term.

This medicine may also cause serious effects on the stomach or intestines, including bleeding or perforation (forming of a hole). These conditions can be fatal and can occur without warning while you are taking Motrin, especially in older adults.

You should not use Motrin if you are allergic to ibuprofen, aspirin or other NSAIDs.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to take this medication if you have:

-- a history of heart attack, stroke, or blood clot;
-- heart disease, congestive heart failure, high blood pressure;
-- a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding;
-- asthma;
-- polyps in your nose;
-- liver or kidney disease;
-- systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE);
-- a bleeding or blood clotting disorder; or
-- if you smoke.

FDA pregnancy category D. Taking Motrin during the last 3 months of pregnancy may harm the unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using Motrin. It is not known whether ibuprofen passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Do not give Motrin to a child without the advice of a doctor.

How should I take Motrin?

Use Motrin exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Do not take more Motrin than is recommended. An overdose of ibuprofen can cause damage to 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 of Motrin needed to get relief from your pain, swelling, or fever. Take Motrin with food or milk to lessen stomach upset. Shake the oral suspension (liquid) well just before you measure a dose. To be sure you get the correct dose, measure the liquid with a marked measuring spoon or medicine cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.

The Motrin chewable tablet must be chewed before you swallow it.

If you take Motrin for a long period of time, your doctor may want to check you on a regular basis to make sure this medication is not causing harmful effects. Do not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.

Store Motrin at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not allow the liquid medicine to freeze.