Can you build tolerance to Advil? (+5 tips)

In this article, we will explore whether you can build a tolerance to Advil or not, how is Advil different from the drugs that build the tolerance, what drugs commonly build tolerance in the body and how to take Advil safely. 

Can you build tolerance to Advil?

No, you cannot develop tolerance to Advil (Ibuprofen) (1). Advil is different from opioid analgesics that tends to build up tolerance in the patient after long-term use. However, Advil is an over-the-counter pain reliever and should not be used for more than 10 days.

Advil is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for the treatment of pain, fever and inflammation in the body. It is a drug that works by affecting the action of prostaglandins responsible for all these three processes i.e., analgesic, antipyretic and anti-inflammatory (2).

The body does not make more prostaglandins after ibuprofen has stopped their production, so Advil (Ibuprofen) does not develop tolerance in the body of the patient. 

Advil is safe and effective to be used if taken with consideration to the proper dosing and frequency as directed by the physician. However, inefficient use of Advil may cause stomach ulcers. So, if you have a past history of stomach ulcers, then avoid taking Advil. 

How is Advil different from the medications that cause tolerance?

Advil is different from other analgesics in that may cause tolerance in two different ways.

Mechanism of Action

Advil (Ibuprofen) works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins. These are the chemicals found in the body responsible for inducing pain, fever, inflammation and certain other effects (3).

As Advil inhibits the production, the body does not respond to produce any more prostaglandins as the complete pathway of production is blocked and the body is relieved from the effects of prostaglandins. So, you cannot build a tolerance to Advil.

Pharmacodynamics

Tolerance to drugs usually develops if the body has become efficient in breaking down the drug, countering the action of the drug or eliminating the drug from the body (4). Advil works by inhibiting a natural pathway instead of introducing something new and foreign to the body.

On the other hand, opioid analgesics directly affect the central nervous system to treat the pain. The direct action on CNS receptors causes the same effect to be achieved with a dose higher than the previous one to achieve the same pain-relieving effect as the body adapts to the effects of the drug (5).

Which medications commonly cause tolerance?

Excluding Advil, there are many other drugs that commonly cause tolerance and are usually associated with it. 

Opioids

Opioid analgesics are stronger medications than Advil used for the treatment of pain in cases where over-the-counter analgesics are not effective. Opioid analgesics include morphine, codeine and fentanyl.

They are highly associated with building tolerance in the body and have to be used very carefully only with a prescription from your doctor. They affect the CNS receptors directly and require a dose higher than the previous one if used for the long term (6). 

Benzodiazepines

This class of drugs is used to treat insomnia and anxiety. It makes the patient less sensitive to its normal dose a sit works by modulating the neurotransmitters in the central nervous system. Such drugs include alprazolam, midazolam, lorazepam and diazepam (7). 

Barbiturates

These are sedative drugs. Phenobarbital and secobarbital were once used widely to cause sedation but now the use is not so common anymore due to the increased risk of tolerance and dependence (8). 

Antihistamines

Antihistamines can also build tolerance in the patient. They are used to treat allergies and include drugs such as diphenhydramine and ceterizine (9). 

Some other drugs such as antidepressants, antidiuretics, stimulants and certain other sleep aids can also cause tolerance in the body and need to be used under the careful guidance and supervision of a professional health care provider. Advil does not belong to this category of drugs and can be used safely.

What are the tips for using Advil safely?

Here are some tips to take Advil safely. 

• Take Advil as directed by the physician. Follow the instructions on the packaging.

• Do not take Advil on an empty stomach. Food or milk should be taken with Advil. This can help prevent side effects on the stomach.

• Avoid alcohol while taking Advil as it can cause stomach bleeding. 

• Some medications can interact with Advil and cause unwanted side effects. Open communication with your doctor is essential. Tell them about any underlying condition and medication you are taking already.

• Advil is not associated with tolerance but taking Advil for more than 10 days is not advised. Consult your doctor if you need to take Advil even after 10 days.

• Advil can cause a list of side effects. Seek immediate medical advice if you experience any.

• Store Advil at room temperature, away from direct sunlight.

• Keep Advil is out of reach of children and do not use it after the expiry date mentioned on the label.

In my opinion, Advil does not cause tolerance in the patients. However, unnecessary side effects may appear if the drug is not used according to the directions. Advil is not to be used continuously for more than 10 days. It is important to note that tolerance depends upon various factors in the human body.

If you are concerned regarding the development of tolerance in your body with respect to a particular drug, consult your healthcare provider. They can guide you on the possibilities and how to prevent tolerance of that particular drug.  

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