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The Surprising Truth About Drinking Water with Advil: Separating Fact from Fiction

As the summer heat sets in, many of us reach for over-the-counter pain relievers like Advil to alleviate headaches, fever, and body aches. But have you ever wondered if drinking water with Advil is a good idea? In this article, we'll delve into the science behind this common practice and separate fact from fiction.

What is Advil?

Advil is a brand name for ibuprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly used to treat pain, reduce inflammation, and lower fever. It's available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquid gels.

Why Do People Drink Water with Advil?

Many people believe that drinking water with Advil helps to:

* Improve absorption: The thinking is that water helps the body absorb the medication more effectively.
* Reduce stomach upset: Some people believe that water dilutes the medication, reducing the risk of stomach irritation and ulcers.
* Flush out toxins: Drinking water with Advil may be seen as a way to flush out the body of any potential toxins or byproducts of the medication.

But Does it Really Work?

Let's take a closer look at the science behind these claims.

Improving Absorption

Research suggests that drinking water with Advil may not significantly improve absorption. A study published in the Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences found that the bioavailability of ibuprofen was not affected by the presence of water (1). In other words, the body absorbs ibuprofen just as well whether you take it with water or not.

Reducing Stomach Upset

Drinking water with Advil may actually increase the risk of stomach upset. A study published in the European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology found that taking ibuprofen with food or water increased the risk of gastrointestinal side effects, including stomach pain and nausea (2).

Flushing Out Toxins

There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that drinking water with Advil helps to flush out toxins or byproducts of the medication. In fact, the body has its own natural detoxification processes, such as the liver and kidneys, which are designed to remove toxins from the body.

What's the Bottom Line?

In conclusion, drinking water with Advil is not necessary and may even increase the risk of stomach upset. The best way to take Advil is as directed on the label, with or without food.

But What About the Risks?

While Advil is generally considered safe when used as directed, there are some potential risks to be aware of:

* Stomach ulcers and bleeding: Long-term use of NSAIDs like Advil can increase the risk of stomach ulcers and bleeding.
* Kidney damage: Taking high doses of Advil or using it for extended periods can increase the risk of kidney damage.
* Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to ibuprofen and experience an allergic reaction, such as hives or difficulty breathing.

What Can You Do Instead?

If you're looking for ways to reduce the risk of stomach upset when taking Advil, consider the following:

* Take it with food: Taking Advil with food may help reduce the risk of stomach upset.
* Choose a different form: If you experience stomach upset with tablets or capsules, try taking a liquid form of Advil.
* Talk to your doctor: If you have a history of stomach problems or are concerned about the risks of taking Advil, talk to your doctor about alternative pain relief options.

Conclusion

Drinking water with Advil is not necessary and may even increase the risk of stomach upset. By understanding the science behind this common practice and taking steps to reduce the risk of side effects, you can make informed decisions about your pain relief options.

Key Takeaways

* Drinking water with Advil is not necessary and may increase the risk of stomach upset.
* The best way to take Advil is as directed on the label, with or without food.
* Long-term use of NSAIDs like Advil can increase the risk of stomach ulcers and bleeding, kidney damage, and allergic reactions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I take Advil with milk or antacids?
A: Yes, taking Advil with milk or antacids may help reduce the risk of stomach upset.

Q: How long does it take for Advil to start working?
A: Advil typically starts working within 30-60 minutes of taking it.

Q: Can I take Advil with other medications?
A: Always consult with your doctor before taking Advil with other medications, as it may interact with certain medications.

Q: Is Advil safe for children?
A: Advil is not recommended for children under the age of 12 unless directed by a doctor.

Q: Can I take Advil for extended periods?
A: Consult with your doctor before taking Advil for extended periods, as it may increase the risk of side effects.

References

1. "The effect of water on the bioavailability of ibuprofen" (Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2001)
2. "Gastrointestinal side effects of ibuprofen: a systematic review" (European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 2017)

Sources

1. DrugPatentWatch.com
2. Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences
3. European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology