Ibuprofen Overdose – Signs, First Aid & Treatment
If you or someone you know has taken too much ibuprofen, it can turn a simple pain reliever into a serious problem fast. Most people think a few extra pills won’t hurt, but high doses can damage your stomach, kidneys, and even the heart. Knowing what to look for and how to act right away can make all the difference.
Common Symptoms of an Ibuprofen Overdose
Ibuprofen starts causing trouble within a few hours. Look out for nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain that doesn’t go away. Some people feel dizziness, headache, or a ringing in their ears. If the dose is really high, you might see blood in vomit or stool – that’s a sign of bleeding inside your gut.
Kidney issues show up as less urine, swelling in legs or ankles, and feeling unusually tired. In severe cases, heart rhythm problems can cause palpitations or chest discomfort. Remember, symptoms can vary based on age, overall health, and how much ibuprofen was taken.
How to Respond and Get Help
The first step is not to wait. Call emergency services (911 in Canada) if the person shows any of these red flags: persistent vomiting, severe stomach pain, blood in vomit or stool, difficulty breathing, or sudden confusion.
If you’re alone with someone who’s taken a lot of ibuprofen but isn’t showing critical signs yet, give them water to stay hydrated and keep them upright. Do NOT try to induce vomiting unless instructed by a poison control specialist.
Contact Poison Control Canada (1‑800‑268‑9017) for guidance. They’ll ask about the amount taken, timing, and any other meds involved. Follow their advice exactly – they may suggest going to the ER for monitoring or give you steps to reduce absorption.
At the hospital, doctors might give activated charcoal to limit how much ibuprofen your body absorbs. Blood tests will check kidney function and look for signs of bleeding. If there’s stomach damage, they could prescribe medication to protect the lining and stop further injury.
After treatment, it’s important to understand why the overdose happened. Was it a dosing mistake, confusion with another pill, or intentional misuse? Talk with your pharmacist or doctor about safer pain‑relief options and proper dosing schedules.
Prevent future overdoses by keeping ibuprofen out of reach of children, using the measuring device that comes with liquid forms, and never mixing ibuprofen with other NSAIDs like naproxen without checking a professional.
In short, an ibuprofen overdose is treatable if you act fast. Recognize the symptoms, call for help, and follow medical advice. Staying informed and careful with dosage can keep this common painkiller safe for everyone.
