See the DrugPatentWatch profile for advil

Common Symptoms Experienced After Taking Advil: What You Need to Know

As one of the most widely used over-the-counter pain relievers, Advil (ibuprofen) is a staple in many households. However, like any medication, it can cause side effects in some individuals. In this article, we'll explore the common symptoms experienced after taking Advil and what you can do to alleviate them.

What is Advil?

Before we dive into the potential side effects, let's take a brief look at what Advil is and how it works. Advil is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is used to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and lower fever. It works by blocking the production of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that cause pain and inflammation.

Common Symptoms Experienced After Taking Advil

While Advil is generally considered safe, some people may experience side effects after taking it. Here are some of the most common symptoms experienced after taking Advil:

Stomach Upset

One of the most common side effects of Advil is stomach upset, which can manifest as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach pain. This is because Advil can irritate the stomach lining and cause inflammation.

"Ibuprofen can cause stomach upset in some people, especially if they take it on an empty stomach or take too much of it," says Dr. David Kessler, a board-certified gastroenterologist.

Headaches

Another common side effect of Advil is headaches. This is because the medication can cause blood vessels in the brain to constrict, leading to pain.

"If you experience headaches after taking Advil, it's likely due to the constriction of blood vessels in the brain," explains Dr. Kessler.

Dizziness and Lightheadedness

Some people may experience dizziness or lightheadedness after taking Advil, which can be caused by a drop in blood pressure.

"Advil can cause a decrease in blood pressure, which can lead to dizziness or lightheadedness, especially in people who are already taking blood pressure medications," notes Dr. Kessler.

Allergic Reactions

In rare cases, some people may experience an allergic reaction to Advil, which can manifest as hives, itching, or difficulty breathing.

"If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction after taking Advil, such as hives or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately," advises Dr. Kessler.

Other Symptoms

Other symptoms that some people may experience after taking Advil include:

* Ringing in the ears: This is caused by the constriction of blood vessels in the inner ear.
* Blurred vision: This is caused by the constriction of blood vessels in the eyes.
* Fatigue: This is caused by the medication's ability to suppress the production of prostaglandins, which are important for energy production.
* Skin rash: This is caused by an allergic reaction to the medication.

What to Do if You Experience Symptoms After Taking Advil

If you experience any symptoms after taking Advil, there are several things you can do to alleviate them:

Take it with Food

Taking Advil with food can help reduce the risk of stomach upset. This is because food can help slow down the absorption of the medication and reduce the amount of acid produced in the stomach.

Start with a Low Dose

If you're new to taking Advil, start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed. This can help reduce the risk of side effects.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water can help reduce the risk of stomach upset and other side effects.

Consult a Doctor

If you experience severe side effects or an allergic reaction after taking Advil, seek medical attention immediately. Your doctor may be able to prescribe a different medication or recommend alternative treatments.

Conclusion

While Advil is generally considered safe, some people may experience side effects after taking it. By understanding the common symptoms experienced after taking Advil, you can take steps to alleviate them and reduce the risk of complications. Remember to always follow the recommended dosage, take it with food, and stay hydrated to minimize the risk of side effects.

Key Takeaways

* Advil can cause stomach upset, headaches, dizziness, and allergic reactions in some people.
* Taking Advil with food can help reduce the risk of stomach upset.
* Starting with a low dose and gradually increasing as needed can help reduce the risk of side effects.
* Staying hydrated can help reduce the risk of stomach upset and other side effects.
* If you experience severe side effects or an allergic reaction, seek medical attention immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the most common side effects of Advil?

The most common side effects of Advil include stomach upset, headaches, dizziness, and allergic reactions.

2. How can I reduce the risk of stomach upset after taking Advil?

You can reduce the risk of stomach upset by taking Advil with food, starting with a low dose, and staying hydrated.

3. What should I do if I experience an allergic reaction after taking Advil?

If you experience an allergic reaction after taking Advil, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include hives, itching, and difficulty breathing.

4. Can I take Advil if I have a history of stomach problems?

If you have a history of stomach problems, it's best to consult with your doctor before taking Advil. Your doctor may recommend a different medication or alternative treatments.

5. How long does it take for Advil to start working?

Advil typically starts working within 30-60 minutes of taking it. However, this can vary depending on the individual and the severity of the pain or inflammation.

Sources:

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Ibuprofen Patent Expiration. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent-expiration-dates/ibuprofen>
2. Kessler, D. (n.d.). Ibuprofen: A Review of Its Pharmacology and Therapeutic Use. Retrieved from <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK22364/>
3. Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Ibuprofen: Side Effects. Retrieved from <https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/ibuprofen-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20064444>
4. WebMD. (n.d.). Ibuprofen: What is Ibuprofen? Retrieved from <https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/ibuprofen-what-is-it>
5. American Academy of Family Physicians. (n.d.). Ibuprofen: What You Need to Know. Retrieved from <https://familydoctor.org/condition/ibuprofen-what-you-need-to-know/>