Ibuprofen overdose can be serious and requires prompt medical attention. The exact outcome depends on the amount taken, age, health, and how quickly care is received. Here is a concise overview of what can happen and what to do. Immediate risks
- Gastric and intestinal injury: High doses can irritate or damage the stomach lining, leading to severe pain, bleeding, or ulcers. In some cases, this can progress to significant internal bleeding or perforation if not treated promptly.
 
- Kidney effects: Overdose can cause acute kidney injury or failure, particularly in people with preexisting kidney issues or dehydration. Most cases are treatable with proper medical care, but serious kidney problems can occur.
 
- Central nervous system effects: Large overdoses may cause drowsiness, confusion, seizures, coma, or even slowed breathing. In children, seizures and decreased consciousness can occur with massive ingestions. Emergency care can often reverse these toxic effects.
 
- Liver and metabolic effects: Abnormal liver tests or other metabolic disturbances can occur, though this is less common than stomach and kidney issues.
 
Symptoms of overdose to watch for
- Persistent stomach pain, vomiting, or vomiting blood; black or tarry stools
 - Confusion, dizziness, severe drowsiness, or loss of consciousness
 - Seizures or agitation
 - Rapid or shallow breathing, bluish lips or fingernails (signs of reduced oxygen delivery)
 - Decreased urine output or swelling in legs/feet (kidney involvement)
These symptoms can appear within hours after ingestion or may develop later, especially in children. If any of these occur after a suspected overdose, seek emergency medical care immediately. 
What to do if you or someone may have overdosed
- Call emergency services immediately if there are any alarming symptoms or if a large amount was taken, especially in children. Do not wait for symptoms to worsen if an overdose is suspected.
 
- Do not induce vomiting unless advised by a medical professional. If the person is unconscious, place them in the recovery position and ensure their airway is clear while waiting for help.
 
- If safe to do so, collect information about the amount taken, the time of ingestion, and any other substances involved to share with responders or clinicians.
 
Prevention and safe use
- Follow dosing instructions on the label or from a healthcare provider. Do not exceed the recommended total daily dose or the duration of use.
 
- Be cautious with other NSAIDs or alcohol, as combinations can increase risks to the stomach, kidneys, or liver. People with kidney, liver, heart disease, ulcers, or who are pregnant should consult a clinician before use.
 
- Seek medical advice if pain persists beyond a few days, if there is a history of ulcers, kidney disease, or if taking other medications that interact with ibuprofen.
 
Special notes
- Ibuprofen overdoses are not always immediately life-threatening, but can progress rapidly, especially in children or if a very large amount is ingested. Early medical assessment improves outcomes.
 
- Long-term, frequent use or very high doses can contribute to kidney damage, cardiovascular risk, and gastrointestinal problems. If daily or near-daily use is necessary, a clinician should evaluate the best regimen and monitoring plan.
 
If you want, I can tailor this to your situation (age, amount taken, time since ingestion, existing health conditions) and point you to the nearest emergency resources.
