{"id":628817,"date":"2024-07-03T10:03:30","date_gmt":"2024-07-03T14:03:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/?p=628817"},"modified":"2024-10-25T09:52:23","modified_gmt":"2024-10-25T13:52:23","slug":"can-you-get-addicted-to-ibuprofen","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/can-you-get-addicted-to-ibuprofen\/","title":{"rendered":"Can you get addicted to ibuprofen?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Widely used as an over-the-counter (OTC)  pain reliever and fever reducer, ibuprofen is the most common nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Unlike some other pain medications, ibuprofen is not considered habit-forming and is not classified as a controlled substance by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). While uncommon, published case reports suggest the potential for misuse of ibuprofen in individuals with pre-existing substance use disorders. A clear understanding of this disorder is crucial for promoting safe and responsible use of ibuprofen.<\/span><\/p>\n

Can you get addicted to ibuprofen?<\/span><\/h2>\n

Substance use disorder is the term used instead of drug addiction. While ibuprofen, better known by brand names <\/span>Advil<\/span><\/a> and <\/span>Motrin<\/span><\/a>, is not usually thought to be addictive, criteria for substance use disorder (SUD) can still be met. <\/span><\/p>\n

An adult <\/span>case report<\/span><\/a> contends that substance use disorder can occur with ibuprofen, and an <\/span>adolescent case report<\/span><\/a> raises similar points. The diagnostic criteria for substance use disorders can be met in various ways. Pain medication like ibuprofen, while not considered highly addictive compared to nicotine, alcohol, opioids, other prescription medications, or illegal drugs, can still fulfill the criteria in some cases. Recognizing these diverse presentations can help reconcile differing opinions about what constitutes SUD.<\/span><\/p>\n

A person may not have physical dependence, feel withdrawal symptoms, or develop tolerance to ibuprofen. However, they can still repeatedly take too much ibuprofen or more than the prescribed amount of prescription ibuprofen. This is considered misuse of the drug. Add in repeated problems from the use, unsuccessful attempts to reduce it, or preoccupation with the use of ibuprofen, and a SUD diagnosis may be warranted. <\/span><\/p>\n

That said, most individuals take ibuprofen on a short-term or as-needed basis without a problem. Even if a healthcare professional recommends taking it every day, it is nearly always done without SUD features arising. <\/span>Alternatives to ibuprofen<\/span><\/a> in the <\/span>NSAID class<\/span><\/a> include <\/span>meloxicam<\/span><\/a> and <\/span>Aleve<\/span> (naproxen)<\/span>, and the <\/span>SingleCare discount card<\/span><\/a> can provide savings on any of them.<\/span><\/p>\n

Can you overdose on ibuprofen?<\/span><\/h2>\n

The recommended <\/span>dose of prescription ibuprofen<\/span><\/a> for adults is typically 400 to 800 mg every 6 to 8 hours, with a maximum of 2400 to 3200 mg daily. OTC instructions detail <\/span>lower doses<\/span><\/a>. Coinciding health conditions like kidney, liver, heart, or gastrointestinal disease may require reduced dose limits or complete avoidance. <\/span><\/p>\n

Misuse of ibuprofen can lead to an overdose, although this can also arise accidentally as well. A small ibuprofen overdose can exacerbate common <\/span>side effects<\/span><\/a>, which include the following:<\/span><\/p>\n