How many Advil 200 mg can I take?

Quick Answer

The recommended maximum daily dose of Advil (ibuprofen) is 1200 mg per day for adults and children 12 years and older. This equates to 6 Advil Liqui-Gels (200 mg each) or Advil tablets (200 mg each) per day. It’s important not to exceed this dosage due to the increased risk of serious side effects. Speak to your doctor if you need to take Advil regularly or at higher doses for chronic conditions.

How Much Advil Can You Take At Once?

The maximum single dose of Advil (ibuprofen) is 400 mg, which equals 2 over-the-counter 200 mg tablets or liqui-gels. This dose can be repeated every 4 to 6 hours as needed, up to 1200 mg total per day. Taking more than 400 mg at one time does not provide any added benefit and may increase your risk of side effects. It’s generally recommended to start with 200 mg and see if that relieves your symptoms before increasing your dosage.

Maximum Single Dose

– 400 mg
– Equals 2 tablets or liqui-gels
– Can be repeated every 4-6 hours

Do Not Exceed

– More than 400 mg per dose
– More than 1200 mg per day

How Many 200 mg Advil Can I Take Per Day?

The recommended maximum daily dose of Advil (ibuprofen) is 1200 mg per day. This equates to:

Adults and Children 12+

– 6 tablets or liqui-gels per day
– Each Advil tablet or liqui-gel contains 200 mg of ibuprofen

So if you’re taking the over-the-counter 200 mg tablets or liqui-gels, do not exceed 6 in a 24 hour period. This allows you to take 1 tablet/liqui-gel every 4 to 6 hours as needed for pain or fever.

Children Under 12

– Do not exceed 4 tablets or liqui-gels per day
– Each containing 200 mg ibuprofen

Children under 12 should not take more than 800 mg (4 tablets or liqui-gels) of ibuprofen in a 24 hour period without consulting a doctor.

What Are The Benefits Of Staying Within The Recommended Dosage?

Staying within the recommended dosage guidelines for Advil (ibuprofen) provides effective pain and fever relief while minimizing the risk of side effects and toxicity. Potential benefits include:

Gets The Job Done

– The maximum daily dose of 1200 mg is sufficient for most people to successfully treat headaches, back pain, arthritis, muscle aches, menstrual cramps, dental pain, fever and other common problems.

Avoids Side Effects

– Excessive ibuprofen use can cause side effects like stomach pain or bleeding, kidney problems, increased risk of heart attack and stroke, blood pressure changes, fluid retention, and electrolyte imbalances. Sticking to appropriate dosing helps avoid these.

Prevents Toxicity

– Taking too much ibuprofen at once or over multiple days can lead to potentially serious ibuprofen toxicity. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, dizziness, headache and more. Appropriate dosing prevents this.

Obeys Professional Guidelines

– The maximum recommended dosing aligns with FDA-approved prescribing information and guidelines published by physician groups like the American College of Rheumatology and American Academy of Pediatrics. Following them ensures safe, approved use.

What Are The Risks Of Exceeding The Recommended Dosage?

Exceeding the recommended maximum daily dosage of ibuprofen found in Advil (1200 mg per day) can increase your risk of bothersome or serious side effects and toxicity. Potential issues include:

More Common Side Effects

Stomach pain or discomfort
Nausea
Heartburn
Dizziness
Headache
Bloating
Gas
Constipation

Serious Gastrointestinal Effects

– Ulcers or bleeding in the stomach or intestines
– Can be life-threatening if severe

Kidney Problems

– Ibuprofen may reduce kidney function and cause damage
– Risk increases if taken long term or while dehydrated

Cardiovascular Effects

– Increased risk of stroke and heart attack
– Due to blood pressure changes and blood thinning effect

Toxicity

– Overdose can cause severe vomiting, stomach pain, dizziness, ringing in the ears, seizures
– Can lead to organ damage with long term overuse

Who Should Not Exceed Recommended Dosing?

Certain populations should be extra cautious about not exceeding the recommended dosing for Advil (ibuprofen) due to increased risk of side effects:

Individuals 65+

– Older adults are more susceptible to kidney problems, high blood pressure, and stomach bleeding from excessive ibuprofen. Maximum dose should not exceed 1200 mg per day.

Those With Stomach Ulcers or Bleeding Disorders

– Ibuprofen further increases the risk of stomach ulcers and bleeding problems in these individuals. Maximum doses should be avoided.

People With Kidney Disease

– Ibuprofen can further reduce kidney function. Maximum dose is 1200 mg per day but people with kidney disease should consult their doctor first.

Individuals With High Blood Pressure or Heart Disease

– Ibuprofen may worsen these conditions or interfere with medications used to treat them. Maximum daily dose should not be exceeded without medical supervision.

People Taking Blood Thinners

– Ibuprofen amplifies the blood thinning effect, raising bleeding risk. Maximum doses should not be taken without consulting a doctor.

When Should You Call A Doctor About Advil Use?

In certain situations, you should call your doctor before taking Advil (ibuprofen) or exceeding recommended dosing:

If You Need It For More Than 10 Days

– Long term regular use carries more risks. The doctor can monitor for side effects and may recommend alternatives.

If Your Pain Gets Worse or Persists

– Worsening pain may indicate a more serious underlying condition needing medical treatment beyond ibuprofen.

If You Have Kidney Problems

– The doctor can help choose the safest dose and monitor kidney function if ibuprofen is necessary.

If You Have Ulcers, Bleeding, Or Blood Disorders

– The doctor can assess your risk and recommend precautions or alternatives to ibuprofen.

If You’re Pregnant

– Ibuprofen is not recommended in the third trimester of pregnancy. The doctor can offer low risk pain relief options.

If You Drink Alcohol Regularly

– Alcohol plus ibuprofen raises the risk of stomach bleeding. The doctor can help select safer options.

Key Takeaways

– The maximum daily dose of Advil (ibuprofen) is 1200 mg per day for adults and children over 12
– Do not exceed 400 mg per dose
– Exceeding recommended dosing raises the risk of side effects and toxicity
– Older adults, those with medical conditions, and certain medications have increased risk
– Call your doctor if you need to take ibuprofen regularly or at high doses
– Follow dosage instructions carefully and speak to your pharmacist or doctor if you have any concerns

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