How long does ibuprofen last

Ibuprofen is an everyday painkiller for a range of aches and pains, including back pain, period pain, toothache and symptoms of colds, flu or coronavirus (COVID-19).

It also treats inflammation such as sprains and strains, and pain from arthritis.

It's available as tablets, capsules, granules and as a liquid that you swallow.

Can i take 600 mg of ibuprofen every 4 hours

It also comes as a gel, mousse and spray that you rub into your skin.

Ibuprofen is combined with other painkillers in some products. It's an ingredient in some cold and flu remedies, such as Nurofen Cold and Flu.

You can buy most types of ibuprofen from pharmacies and supermarkets.

Some types are only available on prescription.

For under-17s, read our information on ibuprofen for children.

Key facts

• Ibuprofen works by reducing hormones that cause pain and swelling in the body.
• It takes 20 to 30 minutes to work if you take it by mouth, and 1 to 2 days to work if you put it on your skin.
• Ibuprofen is typically used for period pain or toothache.

  Some people find ibuprofen better than paracetamol for back pain.

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