Ibuprofen 800mg Tablets
Overview
What is this medicine?
How to Use This Medicine
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. You can take this medication with or without food, but if it causes stomach upset, take it with food. Always take it with a full glass of water.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store your medication at room temperature in a dry place, avoiding the bathroom. Protect it from heat and keep it out of reach of children and pets. When disposing of unused or expired medication, do not flush it down the toilet or pour it down the drain unless instructed to do so. Instead, check with your pharmacist for guidance on the best disposal method or participate in a local drug take-back program if available.
Missing a Dose
If you take this medication regularly and miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your normal schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra doses. If you take this medication as needed, follow your doctor's instructions and do not take it more frequently than recommended.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Take with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
- Drink a full glass of water with each dose.
- Do not lie down for at least 10 minutes after taking it.
- Avoid alcohol while taking ibuprofen, as it can increase the risk of stomach bleeding.
- Do not take more than the recommended dose or for longer than advised by your doctor, as this can increase the risk of serious side effects.
- Inform your doctor or dentist that you are taking ibuprofen before any surgery or dental procedures.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
- Ibuprofen Oral Susp 40mg/ml Drops
- Ibuprofen 100mg/5ml Oral Susp
- Ibuprofen 100mg/5ml Oral Susp
- Ibuprofen 200mg Tablets
- Ibuprofen 800mg Tablets
- Ibuprofen 600mg Tablets
- Ibuprofen 400mg Tablets
- Ibuprofen 100mg/5ml Oral Susp Berry
- Ibuprofen 200mg Capsules
- Ibuprofen 50mg/1.25ml Drops
- Ibuprofen Lysine 10mg/ml Inj, 2ml
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Condition-Specific Dosing:
Pediatric Dosing
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Hepatic Impairment:
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Distribution:
Elimination:
Pharmacodynamics
Safety & Warnings
BLACK BOX WARNING
Side Effects
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical attention:
Allergic reactions: Rash, hives, itching, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever), wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, difficulty breathing, swallowing, or talking, unusual hoarseness, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Bleeding: Vomiting or coughing up blood, coffee ground-like vomit, blood in the urine, black, red, or tarry stools, bleeding gums, abnormal vaginal bleeding, unexplained bruises or bruises that enlarge, or uncontrollable bleeding.
Kidney problems: Inability to urinate, changes in urine output, blood in the urine, or sudden weight gain.
High potassium levels: Abnormal heartbeat, confusion, weakness, lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting, numbness or tingling, or shortness of breath.
High blood pressure: Severe headache, dizziness, fainting, or changes in vision.
Respiratory issues: Shortness of breath, sudden weight gain, or swelling in the arms or legs.
Cardiovascular concerns: Chest pain or pressure, rapid heartbeat, or weakness on one side of the body.
Neurological symptoms: Difficulty speaking or thinking, balance changes, drooping on one side of the face, or blurred vision.
Extreme fatigue or weakness: Feeling very tired or weak.
Other severe symptoms: Ringing in the ears, severe back pain, or changes in vision.
Severe Skin Reactions
This medication can cause severe skin reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), and other serious reactions, which can be life-threatening. If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical help immediately:
Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin
Red or irritated eyes
Sores in the mouth, throat, nose, eyes, genitals, or skin
Fever, chills, body aches, shortness of breath, or swollen glands
Other Side Effects
Most people taking this medication do not experience severe side effects, and some may not have any side effects at all. However, if you notice any of the following side effects, contact your doctor if they bother you or do not go away:
Constipation, diarrhea, stomach pain, upset stomach, or vomiting
Heartburn
Gas
Dizziness
Reporting Side Effects
If you have questions about side effects or experience any side effects not listed here, contact your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Severe stomach pain, black or tarry stools, or vomit that looks like coffee grounds (signs of stomach bleeding)
- Chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness on one side of the body, or slurred speech (signs of heart attack or stroke)
- Swelling in your ankles, feet, or hands, or sudden weight gain (signs of kidney problems or fluid retention)
- Unusual bruising or bleeding
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or severe nausea/vomiting (signs of liver problems)
- Skin rash, blistering, or peeling
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing
- Severe allergic reaction (e.g., swelling of face, lips, tongue, throat; severe dizziness)
Before Using This Medicine
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following conditions to ensure safe treatment:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction and its symptoms.
Allergies to aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen.
A history of asthma triggered by salicylate medications, such as aspirin, or NSAIDs.
Certain health conditions, including:
+ Gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding
+ Kidney problems
+ Heart failure (a weakened heart)
+ Recent heart attack
Current use of other NSAIDs, salicylate medications like aspirin, or pemetrexed.
Fertility issues or ongoing fertility evaluations, as this medication may affect fertility.
* Pregnancy, planned pregnancy, or potential pregnancy. This medication can harm an unborn baby if taken after 20 weeks of gestation. If you are between 20 and 30 weeks pregnant, only take this medication under your doctor's guidance. Do not take this medication if you are more than 30 weeks pregnant.
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications (prescription, over-the-counter, natural products, and vitamins) and health conditions with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help determine the safety of taking this medication with your other treatments and health issues. Never start, stop, or adjust the dosage of any medication without consulting your doctor.
Precautions & Cautions
There is a risk of developing high blood pressure while taking this medication. Your doctor will likely advise you to have your blood pressure checked regularly. Additionally, it is crucial to discuss your alcohol consumption with your doctor before drinking. If you smoke, you should also talk to your doctor about the potential risks.
If you have asthma, you may be more sensitive to this medication, so it is vital to consult with your doctor. To minimize the risk of severe side effects, do not exceed the dosage prescribed by your doctor. Taking more than the recommended amount can increase your chances of experiencing adverse effects. Furthermore, do not take this medication for longer than your doctor has instructed.
This medication may affect your blood's ability to clot, making you more prone to bleeding. To reduce the risk of injury, be cautious and use a soft toothbrush and an electric razor.
The use of this medication has been associated with an increased risk of heart failure. If you already have heart failure, your risk of heart attack, hospitalization for heart failure, and death may be higher. It is essential to discuss these risks with your doctor. Additionally, people who have had a recent heart attack may be at a higher risk of heart attack and heart-related death when taking this medication. Your doctor can provide more information about these risks.
There is also a risk of developing a severe brain condition called aseptic meningitis. If you experience symptoms such as headache, fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, stiff neck, rash, sensitivity to light, drowsiness, or confusion, contact your doctor immediately.
In rare cases, this medication has been linked to liver problems, which can be life-threatening. If you notice any signs of liver problems, such as dark urine, fatigue, loss of appetite, stomach pain, pale stools, vomiting, or yellowing of the skin and eyes, seek medical attention promptly.
If you are 60 years or older, you may be more susceptible to side effects from this medication. Your doctor can help you weigh the benefits and risks.
Women of childbearing age should be aware that this medication, like other NSAIDs, may affect ovulation, which can impact fertility. However, this effect is typically reversible when the medication is stopped. If you are trying to conceive, discuss this with your doctor.
If you are breastfeeding, it is essential to consult with your doctor about the potential risks to your baby. Your doctor can help you make an informed decision about taking this medication while breastfeeding.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Severe stomach pain
- Nausea, vomiting
- Drowsiness, lethargy
- Headache
- Tinnitus (ringing in ears)
- Dizziness
- Nystagmus (involuntary eye movement)
- Rarely: metabolic acidosis, coma, acute renal failure, respiratory depression, seizures
What to Do:
Seek immediate medical attention. Call 911 or your local poison control center (e.g., 1-800-222-1222 in the US). Treatment is supportive and symptomatic, including gastric decontamination (e.g., activated charcoal) if appropriate.
Drug Interactions
Contraindicated Interactions
- Aspirin (high-dose, for antiplatelet effect, due to interference)
- Other NSAIDs (increased risk of GI and renal adverse effects)
- Ketorolac (concurrent use)
Major Interactions
- Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin, Heparin, DOACs) - increased risk of bleeding
- Antiplatelet agents (e.g., Clopidogrel, Aspirin low-dose) - increased risk of bleeding
- Corticosteroids - increased risk of GI ulceration/bleeding
- Diuretics (e.g., Furosemide, Hydrochlorothiazide) - reduced diuretic and antihypertensive effects, increased risk of renal impairment
- ACE Inhibitors/ARBs - reduced antihypertensive effects, increased risk of renal impairment and hyperkalemia
- Lithium - increased lithium levels and toxicity
- Methotrexate - increased methotrexate levels and toxicity
- Cyclosporine - increased risk of nephrotoxicity
- Tacrolimus - increased risk of nephrotoxicity
- SSRIs/SNRIs - increased risk of GI bleeding
Moderate Interactions
- Digoxin - increased digoxin levels
- Phenytoin - increased phenytoin levels
- Sulfonylureas - increased hypoglycemic effect
- Quinolone antibiotics - increased risk of seizures
- Alcohol - increased risk of GI irritation/bleeding
Minor Interactions
- Not readily categorized as minor for significant clinical impact; most interactions are moderate to major.
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Rationale: To assess baseline kidney function, as NSAIDs can cause renal impairment.
Timing: Prior to initiating therapy, especially in patients with pre-existing renal impairment or risk factors.
Rationale: To assess baseline hepatic function, as NSAIDs are metabolized by the liver and can rarely cause liver injury.
Timing: Prior to initiating therapy in patients with pre-existing hepatic impairment or risk factors.
Rationale: NSAIDs can cause new onset hypertension or worsen pre-existing hypertension.
Timing: Prior to initiating therapy.
Routine Monitoring
Frequency: Periodically, especially with long-term use, high doses, or in patients with risk factors (e.g., elderly, heart failure, diuretic use).
Target: Within normal limits or stable from baseline.
Action Threshold: Significant increase in creatinine (>20-30% from baseline) or decrease in eGFR; consider dose reduction or discontinuation.
Frequency: Regularly, especially with long-term use or in hypertensive patients.
Target: Individualized target BP.
Action Threshold: Sustained elevation above target; consider antihypertensive adjustment or NSAID discontinuation.
Frequency: Periodically with long-term use.
Target: Within normal limits.
Action Threshold: Significant drop in hemoglobin/hematocrit (suggesting GI bleeding) or signs of dyscrasias.
Frequency: Ongoing patient education and self-monitoring.
Target: Absence of symptoms.
Action Threshold: Any signs of GI bleeding; immediate medical attention required.
Symptom Monitoring
- Gastrointestinal symptoms (e.g., abdominal pain, dyspepsia, nausea, vomiting, heartburn)
- Signs of gastrointestinal bleeding (e.g., black, tarry stools; coffee-ground emesis; severe abdominal pain)
- Signs of cardiovascular events (e.g., chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness on one side of the body, slurred speech)
- Signs of renal dysfunction (e.g., decreased urine output, swelling in ankles/feet, unusual fatigue)
- Signs of allergic reaction (e.g., rash, itching, hives, swelling of face/lips/tongue, difficulty breathing)
- Changes in blood pressure
- Unusual bruising or bleeding
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Avoid use during the third trimester of pregnancy due to the risk of premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus and persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn. Use during the first and second trimesters should be avoided unless the potential benefit outweighs the potential risk to the fetus, and only under strict medical supervision.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
Lactation
Ibuprofen is excreted in breast milk in very small amounts. It is generally considered compatible with breastfeeding when used at usual analgesic doses, as adverse effects in breastfed infants are unlikely. However, caution is advised, especially with high doses or prolonged use.
Pediatric Use
Ibuprofen 800mg tablets are generally not recommended for pediatric patients due to the high dose. Lower strengths (e.g., 50mg/1.25mL suspension, 100mg chewable tablets, 200mg tablets) are used for fever and pain in children based on weight and age. Use in infants under 6 months is generally not recommended without medical advice.
Geriatric Use
Elderly patients are at increased risk for serious adverse reactions to NSAIDs, including gastrointestinal bleeding, ulceration, perforation, renal impairment, and cardiovascular events. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible. Monitor renal function, blood pressure, and for signs of GI bleeding closely.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Always advise patients to take ibuprofen with food or milk to minimize GI upset, even though it may slightly delay absorption.
- Emphasize the importance of staying hydrated, especially in patients at risk for renal impairment.
- Counsel patients on the signs and symptoms of GI bleeding and cardiovascular events, and when to seek immediate medical attention.
- Remind patients that ibuprofen is not a substitute for low-dose aspirin for cardiovascular protection; in fact, it can interfere with aspirin's antiplatelet effect if taken concurrently.
- For chronic use, consider co-prescribing a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) or H2 blocker for GI protection, especially in high-risk patients.
- Be mindful of the cumulative dose of NSAIDs if patients are taking multiple OTC products containing ibuprofen or other NSAIDs.
Alternative Therapies
- Acetaminophen (for pain and fever, no anti-inflammatory effect)
- Other NSAIDs (e.g., Naproxen, Celecoxib, Diclofenac) - chosen based on patient factors, duration of action, and specific COX selectivity.
- Opioid analgesics (for severe pain, short-term use, with significant side effect profile)
- Topical analgesics (e.g., topical NSAIDs, capsaicin, lidocaine patches)
- Non-pharmacological therapies (e.g., RICE - Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation; physical therapy, massage, acupuncture, heat/cold therapy, exercise)