It is generally safe to take Advil (ibuprofen) and antibiotics together, but it is always important to consult with a healthcare professional before combining medications. Advil is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is used to relieve pain, reduce fever, and reduce inflammation [1]. It is available over-the-counter and can be used to treat a variety of conditions such as headaches, menstrual cramps, toothaches, and arthritis pain [2].
Antibiotics are prescription drugs that are used to treat bacterial infections. They work by killing or stopping the growth of bacteria [3]. It is important to note that antibiotics are not effective against viral infections such as the common cold or the flu [3].
According to Drugs.com, there are no known interactions between ibuprofen and antibiotics [4]. However, some antibiotics such as tetracyclines and fluoroquinolones can cause stomach upset and taking ibuprofen on an empty stomach can also cause stomach irritation [4]. Therefore, it is important to take ibuprofen with food or milk to minimize stomach irritation [4].
It is also important to follow the dosing instructions for both medications and to not exceed the recommended dose. Taking too much ibuprofen can cause serious side effects such as stomach bleeding, kidney damage, and heart attack [2]. Similarly, taking antibiotics for too long or not finishing the entire course can lead to antibiotic resistance and make future infections more difficult to treat [3].
In conclusion, it is generally safe to take Advil and antibiotics together, but it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before combining medications. It is also important to follow the dosing instructions for both medications and to not exceed the recommended dose.
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/ADVIL
[2] https://www.advil.com/advil-safety/combining-medications/
[3] https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use/community/about-antibiotic-resistance.html
[4] https://www.drugs.com/medical-answers/take-ibuprofen-antibiotics-3121711/