As you reach for that bottle of ibuprofen in your medicine cabinet, you may wonder: “Can ibuprofen get you high?” It’s a question that reflects growing concerns about medication misuse. Recent studies show a 25% increase in over-the-counter drug abuse among teens since 2015. While ibuprofen doesn’t produce a euphoric effect, its misuse can lead to serious health consequences. At Evoke Wellness, we understand the complexities of substance abuse and offer comprehensive programs including addiction treatment, mental health support, and specialized care for veterans and union members. Our therapeutic approach addresses the root causes of drug misuse, helping you or your loved ones achieve lasting recovery.
Together, let’s embrace the journey to recovery and the promise of a new beginning. Call us at (855) 509-1369 today or reach out online.
What is Ibuprofen?
A Common Pain Reliever
Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) widely used to relieve pain, fever, and inflammation. It belongs to a class of medications called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Some common brand names for ibuprofen include Advil, Motrin, and Nuprin.
How It Works
This over-the-counter medication works by blocking the production of prostaglandins – hormone-like substances that cause inflammation, pain, and fever in the body. By reducing prostaglandin levels, ibuprofen helps alleviate symptoms like headaches, muscle aches, arthritis pain, menstrual cramps, and fever.
Appropriate Use
Ibuprofen is generally safe when taken as directed for short periods of time. However, long-term or excessive use can lead to side effects like stomach problems, kidney issues, and increased risk of heart attack or stroke. It’s crucial to follow dosage instructions and consult a doctor before using ibuprofen, especially if you have underlying medical conditions.
Ibuprofen is Not a Mind or Mood Altering Substance
Ibuprofen’s Mechanism of Action
Ibuprofen, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), works by reducing the production of prostaglandins – hormones that cause inflammation, pain, and fever in the body. According to the experts at Evoke Wellness, it does not interact with the brain’s reward system or produce any euphoric or intoxicating effects. Unlike opioids or other controlled substances, ibuprofen is not habit-forming or mind-altering.
Risks of Excessive Ibuprofen Use
While taking ibuprofen as directed is generally safe, abusing it by consuming excessive amounts can lead to serious health consequences. Potential side effects include gastrointestinal bleeding, heart problems, liver damage, and kidney issues. However, as stated on the Evoke Wellness blog, one cannot get “high” on ibuprofen, regardless of the dosage consumed.
Safety and Proper Use
To ensure safe use, it’s crucial to follow the recommended dosage on the product label and consult a healthcare professional if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking other medications. Ibuprofen should be used responsibly and only for its intended purposes – relieving mild to moderate pain, inflammation, and fever. It is not a recreational drug and should never be misused or combined with other substances without medical supervision.
You Cannot Get High on Ibuprofen
Despite common misconceptions, ibuprofen is not a substance that can produce any mind-altering or psychoactive effects. According to Evoke Wellness, it’s a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat pain, fever, and inflammation – nothing more.
Overdosing Risks, Not a High
Attempting to abuse ibuprofen by taking excessive doses will not lead to any sort of euphoric “high.” Instead, it drastically increases the risk of serious medical complications and potentially fatal overdose symptoms.
These may include:
- Confusion and anxiety
- Severe organ damage to kidneys and liver
- Stomach bleeding and bowel issues
Long-Term Dangers
Even with long-term, non-overdose levels of ibuprofen abuse, there are no psychoactive effects to be had. The risks, however, are very real – including increased chances of heart attack, permanent organ damage, and internal bleeding.
The Bottom Line
Ibuprofen simply does not have any properties that allow it to be abused as a way to get high. All it can do is put your health in serious jeopardy if misused or taken improperly. Never take more than the recommended dosage on the label.
Overdosing on Ibuprofen is Dangerous
Risks of Excessive Ibuprofen Use
Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly used to treat mild-to-moderate pain and inflammation. While generally safe when taken as directed, consuming excessive amounts can have severe, potentially life-threatening consequences. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, gastrointestinal issues like stomach bleeding are the primary adverse effects, even from the first day of ibuprofen use.
Overdosing on ibuprofen increases the risk of:
- Gastrointestinal bleeding
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Kidney damage and failure
- Liver damage
Seeking immediate medical attention is crucial if you experience these signs after taking excessive ibuprofen.
Safe Dosing Guidelines
The recommended maximum daily dosage is 800mg per dose or 3,200mg total for healthy adults. Exceeding these limits significantly increases the risk of adverse effects. Factors like age, weight, existing conditions, and other medications can further impact safe dosage amounts. Older adults and those with liver or kidney issues may require lower doses to avoid complications.
Addiction Treatment Programs Can Help with Ibuprofen Abuse
The Risks of Ibuprofen Overuse
While ibuprofen is safe when taken as directed, long-term or excessive use can lead to physical dependence. Some individuals may abuse this over-the-counter pain medication by taking high doses to experience euphoric effects or relieve mental distress. However, ibuprofen does not produce a “high” and abusing it risks severe side effects.
Dangers of Ibuprofen Addiction
Regularly consuming too much ibuprofen strains the body. Potential dangers include:
- Stomach ulcers and gastrointestinal bleeding
- Kidney damage
- Liver damage
- Heart attack and stroke risk
Those with chronic pain or mental health issues may be more prone to ibuprofen dependence. Attempting to self-medicate can worsen co-occurring disorders and put one’s health at serious risk.
Comprehensive Treatment Solutions
Professional addiction treatment programs offer a safe, structured environment to overcome ibuprofen abuse and any co-occurring substance use or mental health disorders. Programs tailored for veterans address the unique challenges they face.
Evoke Wellness provides:
- Medically-supervised detox
- Inpatient and outpatient rehab
- Behavioral therapies like CBT
- Family support programs
- Medication-assisted treatment
- Dual diagnosis treatment
- Continuing care planning
Their evidence-based approach combines various therapies to treat the root causes of addiction and promote long-term recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions About Getting High on Ibuprofen
What is ibuprofen?
Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly used to treat mild to moderate pain, fever, and inflammation. It is available over-the-counter and works by reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body. According to Evoke Wellness, ibuprofen itself does not produce any mood or mind-altering effects.
Can you get high from ibuprofen?
No, ibuprofen is not a psychoactive substance and does not cause a “high” when taken as directed. Taking excessive amounts to try getting high will not work and can be extremely dangerous.
What are the risks of ibuprofen abuse?
Abusing ibuprofen by taking higher than recommended doses can lead to serious side effects, including:
- Heart problems
- Permanent liver and kidney damage
- Stomach and intestinal bleeding
- Confusion and anxiety
- Overdose symptoms like vomiting and seizures
In severe cases, ibuprofen overdose can be fatal.
Is ibuprofen addictive?
Ibuprofen itself is not considered a habit-forming drug. However, some individuals may develop a psychological dependence on taking excessive amounts. Additionally, ibuprofen is sometimes combined with addictive opioids, which increases the risks of adverse effects and substance abuse issues.
What should I do if I’m abusing ibuprofen?
If you or a loved one is intentionally misusing ibuprofen, it’s important to seek professional help. Underlying substance use disorders or mental health issues may exist that require comprehensive treatment. Reputable addiction treatment centers like Evoke Wellness offer personalized programs to address co-occurring disorders through evidence-based therapies.
Conclusion
While ibuprofen cannot produce a high, misusing this common medication can have serious health consequences. As you’ve learned, seeking a euphoric effect from over-the-counter drugs is both ineffective and dangerous. If you’re struggling with substance abuse or addiction, professional help is available. Evoke Wellness offers comprehensive treatment programs, including specialized options for veterans, union members, and those with co-occurring mental health disorders. Our therapeutic approaches, family programs, and alumni support are designed to address the root causes of addiction and provide lasting recovery. Don’t let misinformation about common medications lead you down a dangerous path. Reach out today to start your journey toward wellness and freedom from addiction.
Begin Your Journey with Evoke Wellness
If you or a loved one is considering treatment, Evoke Wellness invites you to contact us. Our compassionate team is ready to answer your questions, discuss your needs, and help you take the first steps toward recovery. At Evoke Wellness, you will find more than just a treatment program – you’ll discover a community dedicated to your wellness and success. Together, let’s embrace the journey to recovery and the promise of a new beginning. Call us at (855) 509-1369 today or reach out online.
