Ibuprofen Overdose

Definition

This is poisoning from taking an overdose of pain medicine containing ibuprofen.

Alternative Names

Advil overdose; Nuprin overdose; Pedia-Profen overdose; Rufen overdose

Poisonous Ingredient

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

Where Found

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

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms

Eyes, ears, nose, throat, and mouth

• Ringing in the ears
• Blurred vision

Gastrointestinal

• Diarrhea
• Stomach pain
• Possible bleeding in stomach and intestines
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Nervous system

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

Lungs

• Breathing - difficult
• Breathing - slow 

Bladder and kidneys

• Little to no urine production

Whole Body

• Sweating

Home Treatment

Contact your local Poison Control Center for instructions.

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, or a local emergency number

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 U.S. 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.

Take the container with you to the hospital, if possible.

See National Poison Control center.

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.

The patient may receive:

• Medicines to treat symptoms
• Activated charcoal
• Laxative

Expectations (prognosis)

Recovery is very likely with prompt medical treatment.