Advel is a brand of Ibuprofen which belongs to a group of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These drugs temporarily reduce the amount of prostaglandins made by your body. Your body releases prostaglandins when you have an injury. These hormone-like substances contribute to inflammation, which includes swelling, fever, and increased sensitivity to pain.
Advel is used to reduce fever and to relieve minor aches and pain from headaches, muscle aches, arthritis, menstrual periods, the common cold, toothaches, and backaches. The World Health Organization (WHO) includes ibuprofen on its list of essential medicines. The list states the minimum medical needs for a basic healthcare system.
How should I take Advel?
Use Advel exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Use the lowest dose that is effective in treating your condition. An Advel overdose can damage your stomach or intestines. The maximum amount of ibuprofen for adults is 800 milligrams per dose or 3200 mg per day (4 maximum doses).
A child’s dose is based on the age and weight of the child. Carefully follow the dosing instructions provided with children’s ibuprofen for the age and weight of your child. Ask a doctor or pharmacist if you have questions. Take ibuprofen with food or milk to lessen stomach upset.
What side effects can Advel cause?
Advel may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
• constipation
• diarrhea
• gas or bloating
• dizziness
• nervousness
• ringing in the ears
Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately. Do not take any more Advel until you speak to your doctor.
• unexplained weight gain
• shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• swelling of the abdomen, feet, ankles, or lower legs
• fever
• blisters
• rash
• itching
• hives
• swelling of the eyes, face, throat, arms, or hands
• difficulty breathing or swallowing
• hoarseness
• excessive tiredness
• pain in the upper right part of the stomach
• nausea
• loss of appetite
• yellowing of the skin or eyes
• flu-like symptoms
• pale skin
• fast heartbeat
• cloudy, discolored, or bloody urine
• back pain
• difficult or painful urination
• blurred vision, changes in color vision, or other vision problems
• red or painful eyes
• stiff neck
• headache
• confusion
• aggression
Advel may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.
Who should not use Advel?
Advel is not suitable for people who have previously had an allergic reaction to aspirin or other NSAIDs or who have just had or are going to have heart surgery.
It may also not be appropriate for those who:
• have repeated stomach problems, such as heartburn or abdominal pain
• have stomach ulcers
• have bleeding problems
• have high blood pressure
• have heart disease
• have kidney disease
• are aged over 60 years
• have taken a diuretic
• are using other NSAIDs or pain relief medication
• are using anticoagulants
• are receiving treatment for any serious condition
• have chickenpox or shingles
• have Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
• have liver problems
People who are already using any type of medication should ask a healthcare professional for advice before taking ibuprofen.
In 2015, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) strengthened its warning about the increased risk of heart attack or stroke when using ibuprofen.
Side effects can arise within the first weeks of using this drug. The risk may be greater with a higher dose or long-term use or if a person has a history of heart disease.
The FDA calls on people to be aware of this possible problem and to seek immediate medical attention if they experience chest pain, difficulty breathing, sudden weakness in one part or side of the body, or sudden slurred speech.
A person should consult a doctor or qualified pharmacist if they are unsure about whether to use ibuprofen or not.
