Advil is a brand name for ibuprofen, which is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It’s used to relieve pain, reduce fever, and ease inflammation.
If you’re asking generally:
- Common uses: headaches, muscle/joint pain, toothaches, menstrual cramps, arthritis, fever.
- How to take (adults): 200–400 mg by mouth every 4–6 hours as needed. Do not exceed 1200 mg in 24 hours with OTC use (up to higher doses if prescribed by a clinician).
- With food: Take with food or milk to help prevent stomach upset.
- Kids: Dosing is by weight/age; use the kid-approved formulation and dosing device; follow the package directions or your pediatrician’s guidance.
- Common side effects: stomach upset, heartburn, nausea, dizziness.
- When to avoid or use with caution: history of ulcers or GI bleeding, kidney problems, heart disease, high blood pressure, or if allergic to NSAIDs; avoid with certain medicines (other NSAIDs, anticoagulants, some blood pressure meds, steroids) unless your clinician says it’s okay; avoid in the third trimester of pregnancy (check with your obstetrician).
- Serious risks (seek care): severe stomach pain with vomiting/bleeding, chest pain, trouble breathing, signs of an allergic reaction, sudden changes in hearing or vision, or swelling of the face/throat.
If you meant something else about Advil (how it works, dosing for a specific situation, interactions with a medicine you take, or safety in pregnancy), tell me your exact question and any relevant details (age, weight, health conditions, other meds). I can tailor the info.