Introduction
Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is used to relieve pain, fever, and inflammation. It is one of the most commonly used over-the-counter pain relievers in the United States. Ibuprofen is available in both oral and topical forms. The oral form is typically taken every 4 to 6 hours as needed for pain relief. The topical form is applied directly to the skin over the painful area.
How Long Does Ibuprofen Stay in Your Body?
The amount of time that ibuprofen stays in your body depends on several factors, including the dose you take, your age, your weight, and your kidney function. In general, ibuprofen has a half-life of about 2 hours. This means that it takes about 2 hours for your body to eliminate half of the ibuprofen that you have taken.
The following table shows the approximate amount of time that ibuprofen stays in your body after you have taken a single dose:
| Dose | Time to Peak Concentration | Time to Elimination |
|---|---|---|
| 200 mg | 1-2 hours | 6-8 hours |
| 400 mg | 1-2 hours | 8-12 hours |
| 600 mg | 1-2 hours | 10-14 hours |
Peak Concentration
The peak concentration of ibuprofen in your blood occurs about 1 to 2 hours after you have taken a dose. This is the time when the ibuprofen is most effective at relieving pain and inflammation.
Elimination
Ibuprofen is eliminated from your body through the kidneys. The kidneys filter the ibuprofen from your blood and excrete it in your urine. The rate at which ibuprofen is eliminated from your body depends on your kidney function. If you have kidney problems, ibuprofen may stay in your body for a longer period of time.
Side Effects of Ibuprofen
Ibuprofen can cause a number of side effects, including:
- Stomach upset
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Rash
- Itching
Ibuprofen Overdose
Taking too much ibuprofen can lead to an overdose. Symptoms of an ibuprofen overdose include:
- Confusion
- drowsiness
- Seizures
- Coma
If you suspect that you have taken too much ibuprofen, seek medical attention immediately.
Conclusion
Ibuprofen is a safe and effective pain reliever when it is used as directed. However, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects of ibuprofen and to take it only as directed by your doctor.
