Article written and medically reviewed by Dr. Jennifer L. Hayes, MD, FAAFP – Board-Certified Family Physician, Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians. Last updated: November 17, 2025
What is Motrin (Ibuprofen) Used For?
Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) is FDA-approved for:
- Mild to moderate pain (headache, dental pain, muscle aches, back pain)
- Menstrual cramps (primary dysmenorrhea)
- Minor arthritis pain and inflammation
- Fever reduction
- Prescription-strength (400–800 mg): rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, gout, soft-tissue injuries
Dosage and Treatment Regimens (2025 Guidelines)
Adult Dosing (OTC & Prescription)
| Indication | Dose | Frequency | Max Daily (OTC) | Max Daily (Rx) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General pain/fever | 200–400 mg | Every 4–6 h | 1,200 mg | 3,200 mg |
| Dysmenorrhea | 400 mg | Every 4–6 h | 1,200 mg | 2,400 mg |
| Osteoarthritis/RA | 400–800 mg | Every 6–8 h | N/A | 3,200 mg |
| Acute gout | 800 mg | Every 6–8 h × 5–7 days | N/A | 3,200 mg |
Pediatric Dosing (Weight-Based)
| Weight | Age | Dose (Fever/Pain) | Max Daily |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12–17 lb | 6–11 mo | 50 mg | 200 mg |
| 18–23 lb | 12–23 mo | 75 mg | 300 mg |
| 24–35 lb | 2–3 yr | 100 mg | 400 mg |
| 36–47 lb | 4–5 yr | 150 mg | 600 mg |
| 48–59 lb | 6–8 yr | 200 mg | 800 mg |
| 60–71 lb | 9–10 yr | 250 mg | 1,000 mg |
| 72–95 lb | 11 yr | 300 mg | 1,200 mg |
Comparative Table: Common NSAIDs (2025 Data)
| Drug | Onset | Duration | Half-Life | COX-2 Selectivity | Cardiovascular Risk | GI Risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ibuprofen | 30–60 min | 4–6 h | 2–4 h | Low | Moderate | Moderate |
| Naproxen | 1–2 h | 8–12 h | 12–17 h | Low | Lowest | Moderate |
| Aspirin (low-dose) | Variable | Antiplatelet permanent | 15–20 min | None | Lowest | Highest |
| Celecoxib | 60 min | 12 h | 11 h | High | Highest | Lowest |
| Diclofenac | 30 min | 6–8 h | 1–2 h | Moderate | High | High |
Mechanism of Action
Ibuprofen non-selectively inhibits COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, reducing prostaglandin synthesis responsible for pain, fever, and inflammation.
Safety Profile & Warnings (2025 FDA/EMA)
Cardiovascular risk increases with dose/duration (>1,200 mg/day or >10 days/month).
GI bleeding risk highest among NSAIDs (except celecoxib).
Avoid in third trimester (premature closure of ductus arteriosus).
Official Sources
- FDA Label – Ibuprofen Tablets (2024): FDA Motrin Prescribing Information
- EMA SmPC – Ibuprofen: EMA Ibuprofen SmPC
- PubMed – PRECISION Trial (cardiovascular safety): PubMed 27836696
Real Patient Reviews (2024–2025)
“800 mg every 8 hours stops my menstrual cramps instantly. Nothing else works.”
“Best for back pain after workouts. 600 mg works in 30 minutes.”
“Helps my arthritis, but I take with food to avoid stomach upset.”
“Post-surgery pain – 800 mg better than opioids for me.”
“Only thing that drops my fever fast when I get sick.”
“Works great for gout flares. Take with colchicine.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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