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What is Advil used for? | Advil

  • Can I take Advil if I have a heart condition?

    Talk to your doctor before taking Advil if you have a history of heart problems like high blood pressure or heart disease. Ibuprofen and other NSAIDs can increase the risk of heart attack, heart failure or stroke, so it’s important to how they might affect your specific condition.

  • Does Advil make you sleepy?

    Advil does not contain any ingredients or antihistamines that would make you sleepy. If you are suffering from occasional sleeplessness associated with pain, Advil PM combines the pain-relieving power of Advil with a non-habit forming sleep aid, diphenhydramine.

  • Can Advil keep me awake?

    No. Advil doesn’t contain caffeine or any other stimulants that can keep you up. 

  • Can Advil upset my stomach?

    Yes. Like many medications, Advil has potential to cause a minor upset stomach. However, studies have shown that there’s no significant difference between Advil and a placebo in causing an upset stomach.

  • Can NSAIDS cause ulcers or stomach bleeding?

    NSAIDs may cause severe stomach bleeding. The chances are higher if you: are 60 or older; have a history of stomach problems; take a blood thinner; take other drugs containing prescription or nonprescription NSAIDs [aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, or others]; have more than 3 alcoholic drinks a day; or take more than directed.

  • What are the long-term effects of taking Advil?

    Advil is only intended for short-term use and taking more than directed or for longer than directed can cause adverse side effects. So, make sure to talk to your doctor if your pain lasts more than 10 days, or if your fever doesn’t go away after 3 days.

  • Is Advil bad for my liver?

    When used as directed, adverse effects on the liver are uncommon. Effects on the liver are rare but may include liver disorder, abnormal liver function, hepatitis and jaundice, and, they may occur at higher than recommended OTC doses.

    Consult your doctor before taking Advil if you have liver cirrhosis, or any other concerns about taking this product.

  • Can Advil cause a stroke?

    If you have an existing heart condition or are at risk for it, talk to your doctor before taking Advil. NSAIDs like Advil can increase your risk of stroke and that risk becomes higher if you take more than directed or longer than directed.

  • What are the side effects of taking Advil?

    As with all medications, taking Advil has potential side effects which may include:

    • Hives
    • Facial Swelling
    • Wheezing
    • Rash or blisters
    • Stomach bleeding
    • Chest pain
    • Increased risk of heart attack and stroke

    Click here to see a full list of side effects.

    If you have certain pre-existing health conditions, be aware that taking Advil can cause more serious side effects. Click here to learn more. 

    Learn More

  • Is Ibuprofen addictive? Will it cause withdrawal symptoms?

    No. Advil is not habit forming, and it does not demonstrate addictive properties. Studies show that ibuprofen primarily works in the body (peripherally active), and not in the brain (not centrally active). Advil is not an opioid (it is non-narcotic).

  • Is Advil bad for my stomach?

    NSAIDs like Advil can cause severe stomach bleeding. The chances are higher if you: are 60 or older; have a history of stomach problems; take a blood thinner; have more than 3 alcoholic drinks a day; or take more than directed.