Motrin is a leading nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) containing ibuprofen as its active pharmaceutical ingredient. It is widely prescribed and available over-the-counter for the management of mild to moderate pain, reduction of fever, and alleviation of inflammation. Clinically proven and trusted by healthcare professionals, Motrin works by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, thereby reducing the production of prostaglandins, which are mediators of pain, fever, and inflammatory responses. Its well-established efficacy and safety profile make it a first-line choice for acute and chronic conditions requiring anti-inflammatory and analgesic intervention.

Features

• Active ingredient: Ibuprofen (200 mg per tablet in OTC formulations; prescription strengths available)
• Drug class: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
• Mechanism of action: Reversible inhibition of cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2)
• Formulations: Tablets, caplets, liquid-filled capsules, oral suspension, chewable tablets
• Onset of action: Approximately 30 minutes when taken orally
• Duration of effect: 4 to 6 hours per dose
• Bioavailability: 80–100% following oral administration
• Half-life: 2 to 4 hours in adults

Benefits

• Provides rapid and effective relief from mild to moderate pain, including headache, dental pain, menstrual cramps, and musculoskeletal discomfort.
• Reduces fever by acting on the hypothalamic heat-regulating center.
• Decreases inflammation and swelling associated with conditions such as arthritis, sprains, and strains.
• Improves mobility and functional capacity in patients with inflammatory joint diseases.
• Available in multiple formulations for tailored dosing across different age groups and patient preferences.
• Non-narcotic and non-habit forming, making it suitable for longer-term use under medical supervision.

Common use

Motrin is commonly used for the symptomatic treatment of a variety of conditions, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, gout, dysmenorrhea, and acute migraine. It is also indicated for the management of postoperative pain, soft tissue injuries, and febrile states in both adult and pediatric populations (≥6 months). Its anti-inflammatory properties make it particularly useful in chronic inflammatory disorders, while its analgesic and antipyretic effects support its use in acute self-limiting conditions.

Dosage and direction

Dosage should be individualized based on the condition being treated, patient response, and risk factors. For over-the-counter use in adults and children 12 years and older: 200–400 mg every 4 to 6 hours as needed, not exceeding 1200 mg in 24 hours unless directed by a physician. For prescription-strength ibuprofen, daily dosages may go up to 3200 mg divided into 3–4 doses, under close medical supervision. Take with food or milk to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with treatment goals.

Precautions

• Use with caution in patients with a history of gastrointestinal ulceration, bleeding, or perforation.
• Monitor renal function in patients with pre-existing renal impairment, heart failure, or volume depletion.
• Avoid use in patients with cardiovascular risk factors or established heart disease unless benefits outweigh risks.
• May cause fluid retention and edema; use cautiously in patients with hypertension or cardiac conditions.
• Discontinue use if rash, mucosal lesions, or other signs of hypersensitivity occur.
• Long-term use may be associated with an increased risk of myocardial infarction and stroke.

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to ibuprofen, other NSAIDs, or any component of the formulation.
• History of asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs.
• Peri-operative pain in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.
• Third trimester of pregnancy.
• Severe hepatic impairment or active hepatic disease.
• Severe heart failure.

Possible side effect

Common side effects include nausea, dyspepsia, abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, flatulence, headache, dizziness, and rash. Less frequently, patients may experience edema, hypertension, tinnitus, and blurred vision. Serious adverse effects, though rare, include gastrointestinal bleeding, ulceration, perforation, hepatotoxicity, acute renal failure, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, and anaphylaxis. Patients should seek medical attention if symptoms such as black/tarry stools, vomiting blood, chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness on one side of the body, or slurred speech occur.

Drug interaction

• Concomitant use with other NSAIDs or aspirin may increase the risk of gastrointestinal toxicity.
• May diminish the antihypertensive effect of ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers, and diuretics.
• Can increase lithium and methotrexate levels, potentially leading to toxicity.
• May enhance the effects of warfarin and other anticoagulants, increasing bleeding risk.
• Corticosteroids may increase the risk of gastrointestinal ulceration.
• Cyclosporine and tacrolimus may increase nephrotoxicity when used with ibuprofen.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. Maintain regular dosing intervals to ensure stable therapeutic levels.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, drowsiness, lethargy, blurred vision, nystagmus, tinnitus, metabolic acidosis, coma, and acute renal failure. In case of suspected overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Management is supportive and may include gastric lavage, activated charcoal, and correction of electrolyte imbalances. Hemodialysis may be effective due to ibuprofen’s relatively low molecular weight and protein binding.

Storage

Store at room temperature (20–25°C or 68–77°F), in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use beyond the expiration date printed on the packaging.

Disclaimer

This information is intended for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, changing, or stopping any medication. Do not use Motrin if you have contraindications or are unsure about its suitability for your condition.

Reviews

Clinical studies and meta-analyses consistently support the efficacy and tolerability of ibuprofen for pain and inflammation. In a 2019 systematic review, ibuprofen was found to be superior to placebo and comparable to other NSAIDs for acute pain relief, with a favorable safety profile in short-term use. Patient reviews frequently highlight its rapid action and effectiveness for menstrual pain and headaches. However, some users report gastrointestinal discomfort with prolonged use. Always follow dosage instructions and discuss long-term use with a healthcare professional.