What's the correct advil dosage when on antidepressants?

Short answer for adults:
- Typical OTC dose: 200–400 mg by mouth every 4–6 hours as needed.
- Do not exceed 1200 mg in 24 hours with OTC ibuprofen unless a doctor directs otherwise. (Prescription doses can be higher if your clinician approves it.)
- Take with food or milk to protect your stomach.

Important safety note if you’re on antidepressants:
- NSAIDs like ibuprofen can raise the risk of stomach/intestinal bleeding, especially when used with certain antidepressants (most notably SSRIs and SNRIs). This doesn’t automatically rule out ibuprofen, but you should use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time and discuss with your clinician.
- If you have a history of ulcers, GI bleed, kidney problems, are taking blood thinners/antiplatelets, or you’re 65 or older, talk to your doctor before using ibuprofen.

Safer alternatives to discuss:
- Acetaminophen (paracetamol) is often a safer option with antidepressants for mild to moderate pain (follow the label: usually up to 1000 mg every 6 hours, max 4000 mg/day for adults, but confirm your personal limit).
- Non-drug approaches (heat/ice, rest, hydration, topical analgesics) can help for some pains.

What I’d like to know to tailor advice:
- Which antidepressant are you taking?
- Are you 65 or older, or do you have kidney disease, ulcers, or are you on blood thinners?
- What type of pain are you trying to treat, and for how long?

If you’re unsure, contact your prescriber or a pharmacist before taking ibuprofen with antidepressants. If you notice signs of GI bleeding (black stools, vomiting blood), stop ibuprofen and seek medical attention right away.