How long does Advil (ibuprofen) usually take to start working for a headache?
For most people, Advil starts to ease headache pain within about 30 to 60 minutes after taking a dose. Pain relief often becomes more noticeable as the dose continues to take effect over the next hour. If you took it with food, the start may be a bit slower.
How long until the headache is fully gone?
Headaches that respond to ibuprofen typically improve over the next few hours. Many people see substantial relief within 1 to 3 hours. If the pain is only slightly better after a couple of hours, it may not be the best match for that particular headache.
What should you do if it doesn’t help after 2 hours?
If the headache is not improving after about 2 hours, avoid taking extra doses too quickly. Check the label for the correct dosing interval and maximum daily amount, and consider switching to a different treatment approach (for example, acetaminophen) if appropriate for you.
How fast can it wear off, and can you take another dose?
The pain-relieving effect commonly lasts several hours. Many OTC ibuprofen schedules use dosing intervals of about 6 to 8 hours, depending on the product’s directions. Use the label guidance for repeat dosing and stay within the daily limit.
When to treat a headache as urgent instead of waiting for Advil
Get medical help right away if you have a sudden, severe headache; a headache with weakness, numbness, confusion, fainting, trouble speaking, or vision loss; a stiff neck with fever; head pain after a head injury; or a new headache pattern that’s unusually intense for you.