Ibuprofen/advil: The Hidden Risk
James, a 40-year-old marathon runner, had been training hard for an upcoming race.
One morning, he woke up with a sharp pain in his knee.
Determined not to let it slow him down, he took ibuprofen—a common pain reliever he had used many times before.
The pain eased, allowing him to continue training.
Over the next few weeks, James relied on ibuprofen daily, taking higher doses when the pain worsened.
He ignored the warning on the label: "Do not exceed the recommended dose." One evening, after a long run, he suddenly felt a burning sensation in his stomach.
He brushed it off—probably just something he ate.
But the pain worsened. One night, he woke up with severe stomach cramps and dizziness. Alarmed, he went to the hospital,
where doctors diagnosed him with a stomach ulcer caused by excessive ibuprofen use.
The prolonged use of the drug had irritated his stomach lining, leading to internal bleeding.
James was lucky—he received treatment in time and made a full recovery. But he learned an important lesson: painkillers like ibuprofen are helpful but should never be overused.
Now, he always follows the recommended dose and listens to his body's signals instead of masking the pain.
He often tells his fellow runners, "Ibuprofen helps, but respect its limits."
Ibuprofen Limits & How to Reduce the Risk of Stomach Ulcers
Maximum Safe Dosage of Ibuprofen
For adults, the maximum daily dosage depends on whether it's over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription strength:
1: OTC Ibuprofen (e.g., Advil, Motrin):
200–400 mg per dose
Max 1200 mg per day (without a doctor's supervision)
Take every 4 to 6 hours as needed
2: Prescription Ibuprofen:
Up to 3200 mg per day (in divided doses)
Only under medical supervision
For children, the dose is based on weight and age—always follow a doctor’s advice.
How to Reduce the Risk of Stomach Ulcers from Ibuprofen
Take It with Food or Milk
Never take ibuprofen on an empty stomach.
Eating before taking it can help protect the stomach lining.
Use the Lowest Effective Dose for the Shortest Time
Don't take more than needed.
Avoid long-term use unless prescribed.
Avoid Alcohol
Alcohol increases stomach irritation and ulcer risk.
Consider a Protective Medication
If you must take ibuprofen for a long time, a doctor may prescribe:
Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) (e.g., omeprazole)
H2 blockers (e.g., ranitidine)
Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water when taking ibuprofen to help kidney function.
Don't Combine with Other NSAIDs
Avoid taking ibuprofen with aspirin or naproxen, as it increases stomach risks.
Watch for Warning Signs
Symptoms of an ulcer:
Burning stomach pain
Nausea
Black/tarry stools (sign of bleeding)
Vomiting blood
If you experience any of these, stop taking ibuprofen and see a doctor immediately.
