Disclaimer: For informational purposes only. This does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before taking any medication.
Ibuprofen Dosage for Adults
Complete ibuprofen dosage information for adults aged 12 and older. This chart covers OTC and prescription dosing for various conditions, including mild pain, moderate pain, arthritis, and menstrual cramps. Always use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary.
Written by Mottalib Radif, MBA INSEAD, Finance Enthusiast
Ibuprofen Adult Dosage Chart
OTC Dosing (200 mg tablets)
Standard over-the-counter dosing for adults and teenagers 12 years and older.
| Age/Weight | Dose | Frequency | Max Daily | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mild pain / Fever | 200 mg (1 tablet) | Every 4-6 hours | 1,200 mg | Start with 200 mg; increase if needed. |
| Moderate pain | 400 mg (2 tablets) | Every 4-6 hours | 1,200 mg | Most common effective dose for moderate pain. |
| Menstrual cramps | 400 mg (2 tablets) | Every 4-6 hours | 1,200 mg | Begin at onset of symptoms for best results. |
| Maximum OTC dose | 400 mg (2 tablets) | Every 4-6 hours | 1,200 mg | Do not exceed without medical supervision. |
- Dose
- 200 mg (1 tablet)
- Frequency
- Every 4-6 hours
- Max Daily
- 1,200 mg
Start with 200 mg; increase if needed.
- Dose
- 400 mg (2 tablets)
- Frequency
- Every 4-6 hours
- Max Daily
- 1,200 mg
Most common effective dose for moderate pain.
- Dose
- 400 mg (2 tablets)
- Frequency
- Every 4-6 hours
- Max Daily
- 1,200 mg
Begin at onset of symptoms for best results.
- Dose
- 400 mg (2 tablets)
- Frequency
- Every 4-6 hours
- Max Daily
- 1,200 mg
Do not exceed without medical supervision.
Disclaimer: For informational purposes only. This does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before taking any medication.
Prescription Dosing (400-800 mg tablets)
Higher doses available by prescription only. These should be used under medical supervision.
| Age/Weight | Dose | Frequency | Max Daily | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Moderate to severe pain | 400 mg | Every 4-6 hours | 3,200 mg | — |
| Osteoarthritis | 400-800 mg | 3-4 times daily | 3,200 mg | Individualize to lowest effective dose. |
| Rheumatoid arthritis | 400-800 mg | 3-4 times daily | 3,200 mg | Higher maintenance doses may be needed; monitor for GI side effects. |
| Absolute maximum (prescription) | 800 mg | 4 times daily | 3,200 mg | Maximum prescription dose. Requires regular medical monitoring. |
- Dose
- 400 mg
- Frequency
- Every 4-6 hours
- Max Daily
- 3,200 mg
- Dose
- 400-800 mg
- Frequency
- 3-4 times daily
- Max Daily
- 3,200 mg
Individualize to lowest effective dose.
- Dose
- 400-800 mg
- Frequency
- 3-4 times daily
- Max Daily
- 3,200 mg
Higher maintenance doses may be needed; monitor for GI side effects.
- Dose
- 800 mg
- Frequency
- 4 times daily
- Max Daily
- 3,200 mg
Maximum prescription dose. Requires regular medical monitoring.
Disclaimer: For informational purposes only. This does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before taking any medication.
Special Populations
| Age/Weight | Dose | Frequency | Max Daily | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Older adults (65+) | 200 mg | Every 6-8 hours | 1,200 mg | Start low; increased risk of GI bleeding and kidney problems. |
| Kidney impairment | Consult physician | As directed | As directed | NSAID use may worsen kidney function. Avoid if possible. |
- Dose
- 200 mg
- Frequency
- Every 6-8 hours
- Max Daily
- 1,200 mg
Start low; increased risk of GI bleeding and kidney problems.
- Dose
- Consult physician
- Frequency
- As directed
- Max Daily
- As directed
NSAID use may worsen kidney function. Avoid if possible.
Disclaimer: For informational purposes only. This does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before taking any medication.
Important Adult Dosage Warnings
Ibuprofen Adult Dosage Precautions
- Always take ibuprofen with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
- Do not use for more than 10 days for pain without consulting a doctor.
- Do not exceed 1,200 mg per day for OTC use.
- Seek medical attention if you experience signs of stomach bleeding, chest pain, or severe allergic reactions.
For a complete list of warnings and safety information, see the Ibuprofen dosage guide warnings section.
Adult Dosage FAQ
Sources & References
- 1.FDA - Ibuprofen Drug Facts LabelAccessed 2025-01-15
- 2.Mayo Clinic - Ibuprofen (Oral Route) Proper UseAccessed 2025-01-15
Other Ibuprofen Dosage Guides
Ibuprofen Complete Dosage Guide
Return to the full ibuprofen overview with all dosing information, side effects, and interactions