See the DrugPatentWatch profile for advil

Common Side Effects of Advil: What You Need to Know

What is Advil?

Advil is a popular over-the-counter (OTC) pain reliever and anti-inflammatory medication manufactured by Pfizer. It contains ibuprofen as its active ingredient, which is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Advil is widely used to treat various conditions, including headaches, muscle and joint pain, menstrual cramps, and fever.

Common Side Effects of Advil

While Advil is generally considered safe and effective, it can cause side effects in some individuals. The most common side effects of Advil include:

Digestive Issues

* Stomach upset: Up to 10% of people who take Advil may experience stomach upset, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
* Heartburn: Advil can cause heartburn and acid reflux in some individuals.
* Abdominal pain: Some people may experience abdominal pain, cramps, or discomfort after taking Advil.

Skin and Allergic Reactions

* Rash: In rare cases, Advil can cause a rash or hives in some individuals.
* Itching: Some people may experience itching or flushing after taking Advil.
* Anaphylaxis: In rare cases, Advil can cause anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention.

Nervous System Side Effects

* Dizziness: Advil can cause dizziness or lightheadedness in some individuals.
* Headache: Some people may experience headache or migraine after taking Advil.
* Numbness or tingling: In rare cases, Advil can cause numbness or tingling in the hands or feet.

Other Side Effects

* Fatigue: Advil can cause fatigue or drowsiness in some individuals.
* Drowsiness: Some people may experience drowsiness or sedation after taking Advil.
* Blood disorders: In rare cases, Advil can cause blood disorders, such as low platelet count or bleeding.

Rare but Serious Side Effects

While rare, Advil can cause serious side effects, including:

* Gastrointestinal bleeding: Advil can cause gastrointestinal bleeding, which can be life-threatening.
* Kidney damage: Long-term use of Advil can cause kidney damage or failure.
* Liver damage: Advil can cause liver damage or failure, especially in people who take high doses or use it for extended periods.

Precautions and Warnings

It's essential to take Advil with caution and follow the recommended dosage to minimize the risk of side effects. If you experience any side effects, consult your doctor or pharmacist. Additionally, Advil is not recommended for:

* Pregnant or breastfeeding women: Advil can cause harm to the fetus or baby.
* Children under 12 years: Advil is not recommended for children under 12 years due to the risk of stomach ulcers and bleeding.
* People with kidney or liver disease: Advil can worsen kidney or liver disease, so it's essential to consult your doctor before taking it.

Conclusion

Advil is a popular OTC medication that can provide relief from pain and inflammation. However, it's essential to be aware of the common side effects, including digestive issues, skin and allergic reactions, nervous system side effects, and other side effects. If you experience any side effects, consult your doctor or pharmacist. Remember to take Advil with caution and follow the recommended dosage to minimize the risk of side effects.

Key Takeaways

* Advil is a popular OTC pain reliever and anti-inflammatory medication.
* Common side effects of Advil include digestive issues, skin and allergic reactions, nervous system side effects, and other side effects.
* Rare but serious side effects of Advil include gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney damage, and liver damage.
* Advil is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, children under 12 years, and people with kidney or liver disease.

FAQs

1. What are the most common side effects of Advil?
* The most common side effects of Advil include stomach upset, heartburn, abdominal pain, rash, itching, and dizziness.
2. Can I take Advil if I have kidney or liver disease?
* No, Advil is not recommended for people with kidney or liver disease, as it can worsen these conditions.
3. Can I take Advil if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
* No, Advil is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, as it can cause harm to the fetus or baby.
4. Can I take Advil with other medications?
* It's essential to consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking Advil with other medications, as it can interact with certain medications and increase the risk of side effects.
5. How long does it take for Advil to start working?
* Advil typically starts working within 30-60 minutes after taking it.

Sources

1. Pfizer. (n.d.). Advil Product Information. Retrieved from <https://www.pfizer.com/products/advil>
2. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Advil Patent Expiration. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent-expiration/advil>
3. Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin). Retrieved from <https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/ibuprofen-oral-route/description/drg-20060576>
4. WebMD. (n.d.). Advil Side Effects. Retrieved from <https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-1441/advil-ibuprofen-oral/details/list-sideeffects>
5. FDA. (n.d.). Ibuprofen. Retrieved from <https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/ibuprofen>