Over-the-counter labels recommend 200 to 400 mg of ibuprofen (1 to 2 tablets) per dose and no more than 1,200 mg a day. Three tablets (600 mg) exceeds the label, so only take that if a doctor says so.
Label dose
OTC ibuprofen: 200 to 400 mg every 4 to 6 hours. Maximum 1,200 mg a day unless a doctor advises otherwise.
3 tablets
Three 200 mg tablets equal 600 mg, which is above the OTC label for a single dose.
Risks
Stomach ulcers and bleeding, kidney damage and high blood pressure.
Take with food
Reduces stomach upset.
Who should avoid
People with ulcers, kidney disease, heart failure, or in late pregnancy.
Ask
A pharmacist or doctor.
Label limits
Over-the-counter ibuprofen tablets are 200 mg each. The label dose for adults is 1 tablet (200 mg) every 4 to 6 hours, and if pain persists, 2 tablets (400 mg), without exceeding 6 tablets (1,200 mg) in 24 hours unless a doctor advises. Three tablets (600 mg) exceed the OTC single dose but is a common prescription dose used by doctors for pain or inflammation.
- Prescription ibuprofen is often 400 mg, 600 mg or 800 mg per dose, with a maximum of 3,200 mg per day under supervision.
- FDA labeling warns that NSAIDs raise the risk of heart attack, stroke and stomach bleeding, especially at higher doses and longer use.
- Take with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
Who should avoid
People with kidney disease, stomach ulcers, heart failure, asthma triggered by NSAIDs, pregnancy (especially after 20 weeks), or those on blood thinners should avoid ibuprofen unless approved. Do not combine with other NSAIDs such as naproxen or aspirin. Ask a pharmacist or doctor before taking more than the label dose.
Label limits
Over the counter ibuprofen labels list 200 mg tablets, with 1 tablet every 4 to 6 hours as directed, and up to 2 tablets if needed, with a maximum of 1,200 mg in 24 hours unless a doctor directs more. Three tablets is 600 mg, which is a common prescription strength dose under medical direction.
Who should avoid
People with stomach ulcers, kidney disease, heart failure, asthma triggered by NSAIDs, those on blood thinners and in late pregnancy should avoid ibuprofen. Take with food.
Pain relief limits
Ibuprofen is metabolized in the liver and cleared by kidneys. Over the counter dosing of 200 to 400 mg every 4 to 6 hours is typical, with a limit of 1,200 mg a day. Prescription doses for pain can reach 800 mg three times daily under supervision (2,400 mg max). The FDA warned in 2015 that NSAIDs raise the risk of heart attack and stroke, particularly at higher doses.
Safety measures
Take with food and water. Avoid with other NSAIDs like naproxen or aspirin. Stop and seek help for black stools, stomach pain, rash, swelling or reduced urination. Not recommended in the third trimester. Children’s doses depend on weight, and follow the label.
Based on data from the US Food and Drug Administration
