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Does ibuprofen help with sore throat?

While ibuprofen can help alleviate the symptoms of a sore throat, it does not treat the underlying condition
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By | Mar. 6, 2024 Medically reviewed by Karen Berger, Pharm.D.
A woman holding her throat and drinking water: Does ibuprofen help with sore throat?

Key takeaways

  • Ibuprofen is a generic medication available over the counter to relieve symptoms of pain, inflammation (swelling), and fever. It is also available in higher doses by prescription.

  • Ibuprofen can help relieve symptoms of sore throat. However, ibuprofen does not treat underlying conditions such as a bacterial infection. Depending on the type and severity of your symptoms, you may need to see a healthcare provider for an appropriate diagnosis and treatment of your sore throat.

  • Before using ibuprofen, check with your pharmacist or healthcare provider to see if it is safe for you.

In this article:

Sore throats occur for a variety of reasons. Ibuprofen, a common over-the-counter (OTC) pain reliever, is an effective treatment for sore throat symptoms. The recommended dose of ibuprofen can reduce discomfort from pain and inflammation associated with a sore throat, although some causes of sore throat may require prescription medicine. Sore throats are often associated with colds and cases of the flu. It is important to drink plenty of fluids, monitor body temperature, and consult a healthcare provider if sore throat symptoms worsen. 

Can I take ibuprofen for a sore throat?

Many sore throats will clear on their own, but taking ibuprofen can relieve some of those uncomfortable symptoms until optimal health resumes. A sore throat, also known as pharyngitis, could result from a virus, bacterial infection, allergies, or sinus drainage. Additional causes of sore throat could include dry air, air pollution, a side effect from cigarette smoke, and even yelling. Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can assist in relieving a sore throat and related symptoms. 

Ibuprofen helps reduce pain, inflammation, and fever. It blocks cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes and reduces prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that trigger pain and inflammation. Blocking these chemicals in the body can reduce inflammation, fever, and mild to moderate pain associated with a sore throat. Remember, while ibuprofen can reduce symptoms of sore throat, it does treat the underlying cause. 

Use caution if taking multiple medications to treat a sore throat that occurs along with other symptoms such as cough. Many combination cough and cold products incorporate ibuprofen or Tylenol (acetaminophen) into the medication. Read product labels carefully to avoid accidentally taking a double dose of ibuprofen or pain reliever, especially for children. Although ibuprofen is available OTC, it also comes in prescription form in higher doses. Follow the pharmacist’s recommendation on how to use medication properly. 

How fast does ibuprofen work for a sore throat?

In general, ibuprofen will start to work after about 30 minutes, although this timeframe can vary. Take ibuprofen with food or milk to lower the risk of side effects such as indigestion or irritation to the stomach lining. 

Research shows that older adults who use NSAIDs chronically have increased chances of developing peptic ulcers and other conditions, such as heart attack, stroke, and kidney disorders. Furthermore, studies suggest—and experts recommend—that pain relief medication, at any age, be taken at the lowest effective dosage for a minimal length of time. 

Ibuprofen reaches maximum effectiveness approximately 1-2 hours after it is ingested. Throat lozenges and other natural remedies could help soothe the throat before the medication is in full effect or if it starts to wear off before the next dose. The effects of ibuprofen fade after several hours. Still, it takes approximately 24 hours for a dose of the drug to metabolize and be eliminated from the body (if no more medication is taken after that dose). 

How long does a sore throat last?

A sore throat could occur from numerous causes. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), most sore throats result from viral infection. Other sources of sore throat are bacterial infections, allergies, and overuse of the vocal cords. Treatment and the length of a sore throat will vary based on the root cause. For example:

  • Viral infection: A sore throat associated with the common cold is viral and may last 2 to 7 days. Sore throats caused by viruses will eventually clear on their own, but over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen will help alleviate symptoms such as pain and inflammation. Viral infections may also accompany other symptoms such as a runny or stuffy nose and cough. 
  • Bacterial infection: Caused by bacteria, bacterial infections can include streptococcal pharyngitis (strep throat), bacterial tonsillitis, and bacterial sinus infections. This type of sore throat can last a week to 10 days. Although ibuprofen may help relieve symptoms, it does not cure a bacterial infection. Antibiotics may be needed to resolve the cause of the infection. Bacterial infections may also include swollen glands in the neck, joint pain, body soreness, nausea, vomiting, and stomachache. 
  • Allergies: Allergies can cause throat irritation along with runny nose or congestion. Seasonal allergies could last 6 weeks or more. While ibuprofen could be beneficial as needed for certain allergic symptoms such as headache or sore throat, an antihistamine allergy medication such as Claritin (loratadine) and/or steroid nasal spray, such as Flonase (fluticasone), can be used daily when allergies are triggered.
  • Overuse: Overuse of the vocal cords from talking or yelling can cause swelling and discomfort. Symptoms may last 3 to 7 days and will clear on its own. Taking ibuprofen can reduce symptoms faster.
  • Smoking side effect: Many individuals who smoke cigarettes daily experience sore, dry, scratchy throat. Taking ibuprofen to treat this side effect from cigarette smoke may not be helpful as this may be a long-term problem. Smoking weakens the immune system and increases the risk of sore throat infections as well as cancer. 

Individuals suffering from a sore throat that lasts longer than 10 days should consult a doctor. In addition, seek medical attention if there is a fever of 102 degrees or higher, visible pus on tonsils, red rash, vomiting, or swollen tonsils that make it difficult to breathe or swallow. Leann Poston, M.D., a physician, Assistant Dean, and Director of Admissions of Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine also suggests, “If you have a fever that does not respond to treatment, a stiff neck, worsening symptoms consistent with strep, call your doctor for advice.” A rapid strep test can be administered to determine if antibiotics are needed. Results should be available in approximately 15 minutes. More in-depth tests, such as a throat culture, can take 2 to 5 days for lab reports to return. 

How often should you take ibuprofen for a sore throat?

The standard dose of OTC ibuprofen to relieve pain and inflammation in adults is 200-400 mg by mouth every four to six hours as needed. There is a maximum dosage of 1,200 mg per day for OTC ibuprofen and 3,200 mg for prescription form. It is important to consult your healthcare provider if you have concerns or medical conditions that may alter this amount or prevent you from being able to take this medication. 

MedlinePlus notes general dosage guidelines based on fever and pain relief in the table below. 

OTC ibuprofen dosage for adults
Condition Recommended dosage for adults Maximum dosage for adults
Pain relief 200-400 mg orally every 4-6 hours as needed
  • 1,200 mg per day 
Fever 200-400 mg orally every 4-6 hours as needed
  • 1,200 mg per day

Additional symptoms, such as headache, fever, body ache, joint pain, and earache may accompany a sore throat. Taking ibuprofen can also help relieve these symptoms—however, it will not cure an underlying infection or condition. Therefore, consult a doctor if the sore throat does not improve and/or conditions worsen after several days of treatment at home. Seek medical advice from a health care professional if symptoms include difficulty breathing, difficulty swallowing, severe pain, fever, pus on the back of the throat or tonsils, or any other concerning symptoms. 

While most sore throats will clear on their own, some need professional care or medication. For example, a bacterial infection of Streptococcus pyogenes (strep throat) must be treated with prescription antibiotics. Taking ibuprofen will help reduce painful symptoms but not eliminate the cause of the infection. 

Viral infections, on the other hand, are not treated with antibiotics and may clear up in about 10 days or less. During this time, you can utilize OTC medication such as ibuprofen and other home remedies to relieve symptoms. 

Dosages for sore throat

Ibuprofen is available in various formulations such as tablets, liquid-filled capsules, chewable tablets, and oral suspension (liquid). Chewable and liquid varieties are often used to treat children or older adult patients who cannot swallow pills. Liquid forms may be helpful for individuals with a severe sore throat as swallowing pills could be difficult. Children’s liquid ibuprofen comes in a variety of flavors as well as dye-free. Doses vary by age and weight.

OTC ibuprofen dosage based on age/weight
Weight Age Tablet recommended dosage Liquid recommended dosage Maximum dosage
< 24 lb < 2 yrs Ask a doctor Ask a doctor Ask a doctor
24-35 lb 2-3 yrs 1 chewable (100 mg) tablet by mouth every 6-8 hours as needed 5 mL (100 mg) by mouth every 6-8 hours as needed 4 chewable tablets or 20 mL (400 mg) in 24 hours
36-47 lb 4-5 yrs 1½ chewable tablets (150 mg) by mouth every 6-8 hours as needed 7.5 mL (150 mg) by mouth every 6-8 hours as needed 6 chewable tablets or 30 mL (600 mg) in 24 hours
48-59 lb 6-8 yrs 2 chewable tablets (200 mg) by mouth every 6-8 hours as needed 10 mL (200 mg) by mouth every 6-8 hours as needed 8 chewable tablets or 40 mL (800 mg) in 24 hours
60-71 lb 9-10 yrs 2½ chewable tablets (250 mg) by mouth every 6-8 hours as needed 12.5 mL (250 mg) by mouth every 6-8 hours as needed 10 chewable tablets or 50 mL (1,000 mg) in 24 hours
72-95 lb 11 yrs 3 chewable tablets (300 mg) by mouth every 6-8 hours as needed 15 mL (300 mg) by mouth every 6-8 hours as needed 12 chewable tablets or 60 mL (1,200 mg) in 24 hours

*Weight-based dosing is safer than age-based dosing.

Who should not take ibuprofen for a sore throat?

Before you take ibuprofen, check with your pharmacist or healthcare provider. Be sure to mention any medical conditions and the medications you take. Ibuprofen may interact with other medications, such as cidofovir, methotrexate, and other NSAIDs (such as ketorolac), and cause serious complications. Individuals with certain conditions such as stomach ulcers, allergies to aspirin or other NSAIDs, heart failure, liver disease, or a history of heart attack, should not take ibuprofen. In addition, individuals with asthma, high blood pressure, kidney problems, or a history of stroke should also use caution and consult a healthcare provider before taking this medication. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, check with your healthcare provider. 

Although there is a long list of possible side effects that may occur from taking ibuprofen, many individuals can take this medication without problems. Common side effects may include:

  • Stomach problems like gas, bloating, or constipation
  • Dizziness
  • Nervousness
  • Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)

Symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, require emergency medical attention. Symptoms of a life-threatening skin reaction also require emergency medical help. These symptoms may include fever, skin pain, burning eyes, sore throat, red or purple rash, and blistering or peeling skin. Other side effects, including serious side effects, may occur. 

Consult a medical professional for more information about ibuprofen’s side effects. 

Ibuprofen not working? Alternative medicines for a sore throat

Ibuprofen is the generic name for this type of NSAID and pain reliever. Common brand names include Motrin and Advil. An OTC pain reliever medication that is not an NSAID is Tylenol (acetaminophen). Tylenol is generally considered safe for children, as well as pregnant and breastfeeding women. 

Thomas Potinen, MD, LCP-C, certified physician and co-founder of MAPS Centers for Pain Control, says, “Inflammation is a natural part of the body’s immune system, so it’s important not to rely too much on ibuprofen to find relief from throat pain. There are multiple other options a patient can turn to while they’re suffering from sore throat, such as lozenges, soothing tea, hot water with honey and lemon, and hydration. In my experience, patients do best when they are given a variety of remedies for the symptoms that they’re experiencing when they’re sick.”

Even if you’re using OTC or prescription medication to treat a sore throat, natural remedies can further relieve cold symptoms. 

  • Adding a teaspoon of salt to a cup of warm or hot water is one of many ways to make a quick and effective home remedy. Gargle the salty water throughout the day to break up mucus and flush out bacteria or viruses in the throat. 
  • Sucking on ice chips or popsicles can bring soothing results when treating a sore throat. Chicken soup, broth, and warm tea have a healing effect on sore throat, cold, and flu. Drinking herbal teas, such as green tea, can aid immune support. Add lemon or honey for additional benefits. Allow hot tea to cool a bit before drinking to avoid mild scalding. 
  • The use of a cool mist humidifier may also ease sore throat pain and break up mucus. Cough drops, or hard candies can be used to soothe the throat throughout the day. To reduce the spread of germs, it is important not to share personal items such as a drinking cup or chapstick when ill. It is a good idea to also practice thorough handwashing during cold and flu season.
  • Avoid spicy, acidic, or hard/crunchy foods that may irritate the throat or mouth. Refrain from drinking alcoholic beverages when ill, as that can weaken the immune system. Smokers may want to quit smoking completely and look into stop-smoking programs. Ask your doctor about possible interventions to stop smoking. 
  • To reduce prolonged symptoms: take medications at regular intervals, drink lots of fluids, and get plenty of rest. Many people use a combination of home remedies and medication to reduce symptoms of a sore throat. Seek follow-up care if conditions worsen or new symptoms appear.

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