Does Ibuprofen, Advil Help With Sore Throat? Find Out

Does Ibuprofen, Advil Help With Sore Throat? Find Out

You wake up with a sore throat, and the first thing you reach for in your medicine cabinet is ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin). But will ibuprofen really help to relieve your throat pain? Or does ibuprofen actually make your sore throat worse?

For your information, the medicine called “ibuprofen” is marketed under the trade name “Advil”. Another brand name is “Motrin”. Both Motrin and Advil are ibuprofen brands that are equally effective. All of these medications are the same thing with various names.

Here’s what you need to know about using ibuprofen to deal with a sore throat. If that doesn’t answer all of your questions, read on to find out more!

What Causes A Sore Throat

The most common cause of a sore throat is from a viral infection, like those caused by colds or flu. Cold and flu viruses can also trigger an autoimmune reaction, which causes inflammation in your throat muscles, leading to pain. Exposure to irritants, pollution, smoke, chemicals, can also lead to a sore throat. While antibiotic use doesn’t usually cause sore throats, it can if you have a secondary bacterial infection that may not be helped by antibiotics. Finally, oral herpes (cold sores) can cause irritation in your mouth and make your whole body uncomfortable; it’s possible for some people with oral herpes infections to experience an outbreak in their throats as well.

Does Advil Help With Sore Throat

Will Ibuprofen Help Reduce Pain?

Ibuprofen, also known by the brand name as Advil, is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can help reduce pain and inflammation. It works by blocking prostaglandins, a type of natural chemical compound that causes pain and swelling. However, ibuprofen should not be used for all types of sore throats because it can cause irritation in some people. Always speak with your doctor before taking any medications. For instance, if you have certain medical conditions like high blood pressure or heart disease, it’s best to avoid NSAIDs altogether. Also keep in mind that ibuprofen isn’t approved for children younger than age 12.

So never take ibuprofen for a sore throat without checking with your doctor first; taking ibuprofen when you have strep throat can cause damage that could actually make your symptoms worse.

Will I Get a Rash From Using Ibuprofen When I Have A Sore Throat?

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and aspirin are used for more than just aches and pains. In fact, most people reach for these over-the-counter pain relievers when they have a stuffy nose or cold, or have diarrhea from a stomach bug. But can NSAIDs help with a sore throat as well? The short answer is yes. While it may seem counterintuitive to treat an inflamed throat with medicine designed to reduce inflammation, some research indicates that people who do so tend to experience less severe symptoms in general. If you’re at all concerned about taking ibuprofen when you have a sore throat, though, here’s what you need to know.

Could Other Side Effects Occur After Taking Ibuprofen For A Sore Throat?

Possible side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and a ringing or buzzing sensation in your ears. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop taking ibuprofen immediately and consult your doctor. People with certain medical conditions may be more susceptible to developing side effects, so it’s best not to take ibuprofen if you have an existing health problem. Additionally, you should never give ibuprofen to children under 12 years old without consulting a physician first. If you’re taking other medications that interact with ibuprofen (such as blood thinners), it’s best to avoid taking ibuprofen until after speaking with your doctor about potential drug interactions.

Are there Natural Remedies for a Sore Throat?

There are plenty of natural remedies that can help soothe a sore throat. Honey is an age-old home remedy for soothing irritation of mucous membranes such as those found in your mouth and nose. Gargling with warm salt water can provide similar relief. It’s important to remember that there isn’t one treatment option for everyone: Everyone reacts differently to different treatments, so find what works best for you!