Can You Take Advil on an Empty Stomach?
Taking Advil without food can cause stomach irritation and increase ulcer risk. Learn how to take it as directed, proper dosage, side effects, and when to consult your doctor.
Not medical advice. Speak with a healthcare professional before using any medication.
Reviewed by:
Updated Feb, 15
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Information sourced from FDA-approved prescribing information and peer-reviewed medical references.
How to Take Advil
Can You Take Advil on an Empty Stomach?
No, it’s not recommended to take Advil on an empty stomach. Advil (ibuprofen) can irritate the lining of your stomach and increase the risk of nausea, heartburn, or even ulcers if taken without food. Taking it with a meal, a snack, milk, or at least a full glass of water helps protect your stomach.
You should be especially cautious if you are older, take higher doses, or need ibuprofen regularly, since these factors raise the risk of stomach problems.
How to Take Advil (Ibuprofen)
The following steps reflect standard OTC label instructions for Advil (ibuprofen):
- Per OTC labeling, adults and teens 12+: Take 200 mg–400 mg every 6–8 hours as needed. Do not exceed 1200 mg in 24 hours when using over-the-counter strength.
- Per OTC labeling, children 6 months–11 years: Dose is based on weight. Give 10 mg per kg of body weight every 6–8 hours as needed. Do not exceed 40 mg per kg in 24 hours.
- Per OTC labeling, quick reference for children:
- 24–35 lbs (2–3 yrs): 100 mg per dose
- 36–47 lbs (4–5 yrs): 150 mg per dose
- 48–59 lbs (6–8 yrs): 200 mg per dose
- 60–71 lbs (9–10 yrs): 250 mg per dose
- 72–95 lbs (11 yrs): 300 mg per dose
- Per OTC labeling, liquid Advil for kids: Use the provided measuring syringe or cup. Typical concentration is 100 mg per 5 mL. Match the mg dose above to the correct mL amount.
- Swallow tablets with a full glass of water. If using chewables, make sure they're fully chewed before swallowing.
- Per OTC labeling, space doses at least 6 hours apart. Avoid taking more often, even if symptoms return early.
- If you miss a dose for scheduled use: Take it when you remember, but skip it if it's close to the next dose. Do not double up.
Warnings Before Taking Advil
Per OTC labeling, avoid if you've had allergic reactions to ibuprofen or other NSAIDs.
Per OTC labeling, use caution with stomach issues like ulcers, bleeding, or severe heartburn.
Per OTC labeling, check with your doctor if you have heart, kidney, liver problems, or take blood thinners.
Per OTC labeling, ibuprofen may cause fetal harm. Ask your doctor before use if pregnant, especially at 20 weeks or later in pregnancy.
Advil Side Effects
Common
Mild
Stomach Upset
Per OTC labeling, Advil can irritate the stomach lining, leading to nausea, mild pain, or indigestion, especially when taken on an empty stomach. Taking Advil with food or milk may help reduce stomach upset.
Per OTC Drug Facts labeling. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop use and consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
1–4 hours
Common
Mild
Heartburn
Per OTC labeling, some people feel a burning sensation in the chest or throat because ibuprofen may increase stomach acid.
Per OTC Drug Facts labeling. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop use and consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
1–3 hours
Uncommon
Mild
Dizziness
Per OTC labeling, a few individuals may experience lightheadedness or mild dizziness, particularly when starting the medication or taking higher doses.
Per OTC Drug Facts labeling. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop use and consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
10–30 minutes
Uncommon
Mild
Headache
Per OTC labeling, while used to relieve pain, Advil can occasionally cause a rebound or new headache in some people.
Per OTC Drug Facts labeling. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop use and consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
1–2 hours
Rare
Mild
Fluid Retention
Per OTC labeling, Advil may cause the body to hold onto fluid, leading to slight swelling, often in the hands, feet, or lower legs.
Per OTC Drug Facts labeling. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop use and consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
Several hours
Rare
Mild
Elevated Blood Pressure
Per OTC labeling, ibuprofen can make blood pressure rise, especially in people who already have hypertension or sensitivity to NSAIDs.
Per OTC Drug Facts labeling. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop use and consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
4–12 hours
Contact Us for a Personalized Care Plan
Have questions about compounding? Contact Voshell's Pharmacy — we prepare patient-specific medications pursuant to valid prescriptions from your licensed prescriber.
What If You Forgot to Take Advil
What If You Forgot to Take Advil?
If you miss a dose of Advil, take it when you remember, as long as it's still needed for your discomfort. If it's almost time for your next planned dose, skip the missed one and return to your usual schedule.
Do not double up; taking more than directed won't improve relief and may increase the chance of stomach irritation. Per OTC labeling, doses should be spaced at least 6 hours apart. If you find yourself missing doses often or unsure about timing, check in with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
What If You Took Too Much Advil
What If You Took Too Much Advil (By Accident)?
If more than the labeled amount was used, contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 right away. For children or if the product was swallowed, seek urgent medical care immediately.
- Do not use additional doses until you have spoken with Poison Control or a clinician.
- If symptoms such as severe stomach pain, vomiting blood, or GI bleeding occur, seek emergency medical care.
- Keep this and all medications out of reach of children.
How Much Does Advil Cost
How Much Does Advil Cost with Insurance?
Advil is an over-the-counter medication, so many insurance plans do not cover it unless a clinician writes a prescription for ibuprofen. When it is covered, people typically see:
- A copay for a prescription version of ibuprofen
- OTC Advil is often not covered; store prices vary depending on bottle size
Pharmacies can confirm your plan's rules.
Prices vary by pharmacy, dose, location, and insurance plan and may have changed since this page was written. Contact your pharmacy or insurance provider for current pricing.
How Much Does Advil Cost without Insurance
Cost of Advil Without Insurance
Most people find Advil fairly affordable even without coverage. Prices vary by store, location, and package size.
- Small bottles (24–50 tablets)
- Medium bottles (100–200 tablets)
- Large bottles (300+ tablets)
- Ibuprofen (store-brand): a lower-cost alternative
Warehouse clubs and online retailers often offer the best value for larger quantities.
Prices vary by pharmacy, dose, location, and insurance plan and may have changed since this page was written. Contact your pharmacy or insurance provider for current pricing.
Resources:
https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/ibuprofen-drug-safety-communication
https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682159.html
https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/ibuprofen-oral-route/description/drg-20070602
https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/ibuprofen-for-adults
https://www.drugs.com/ibuprofen.html
