Ibuprofen overdose

Definition

Ibuprofen is a type of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Ibuprofen overdose occurs when someone accidentally or intentionally takes more than the normal or recommended amount of this medication. See also: Pain medicine

This is for information only and not for use in the treatment or management of an actual poison exposure. If you have an exposure, you should call your local emergency number (such as 911) or the National Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

Alternative Names

Advil overdose; Nuprin overdose; PediaProfen overdose; Rufen overdose; Motrin overdose

Poisonous Ingredient

Ibuprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is sold over-the-counter and by prescription.

Where Found

• Advil
• Medipren
• Midol
• Motrin
• Nuprin
• Pamprin IB
• PediaProfen
• Rufen

Note: This list may not be all-inclusive.

Symptoms

Eyes, ears, nose, throat, and mouth

• Ringing in the ears
• Blurred vision

Gastrointestinal

• Diarrhea
• Heartburn
• Nausea
• Stomach pain (possible bleeding in stomach and intestines)
• Vomiting

Kidneys

• Little to no urine production

Lungs

• Breathing - difficult
• Breathing - slow
• Wheezing

Nervous system

• Headache
• Agitation
• Incoherence (not understandable)
• Confusion
• Coma
• Drowsiness
• Seizures
• Dizziness
• Unsteadiness

Skin

• Rash
• Sweating

Before Calling Emergency

Determine the following information:

• Patient's age, weight, and condition
• Name of the product (ingredients and strengths, if known)
• Time it was swallowed
• Amount swallowed
• If the medication was prescribed for the patient

Poison Control

The National Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) can be called from anywhere in the United States. This national hotline number will let you talk to experts in poisoning. They will give you further instructions.

This is a free and confidential service. All local poison control centers in the United States use this national number. You should call if you have any questions about poisoning or poison prevention. It does NOT need to be an emergency. You can call for any reason, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

See: Poison control center - emergency number

What to Expect at the Emergency Room

The health care provider will measure and monitor the patient's vital signs, including temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure. Symptoms will be treated as appropriate. The patient may receive:

The patient may receive:

• Activated charcoal
• Laxative

Outlook (Prognosis)

Recovery is very likely with prompt medical treatment.

References

Goldfrank LR, ed. Goldfrank's Toxicologic Emergencies. 8th ed. New York, NY: McGraw Hill; 2006.

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