Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug overdose (Motrin, Advil)

About Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug overdose (Motrin, Advil)

Ibuprofen(Motrin/Advil), naproxen (Naprosyn), indomethacin (Indocin), aspirin, and celecoxib (Celebrex) are some common NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). NSAID overdoses are rarely lethal but can cause serious injury. Significant ingestions can cause vomiting, stomach ulcers, confusion (altered mental status), metabolic abnormalities, and kidney damage. There are over 300,000 calls to US Poison Control Centers per year related to NSAIDs.

Symptoms

Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, anxiety, tremors, confusion (altered mental status), vomiting blood or material with the appearance of coffee grounds, black stools (melena), decreased urination, ringing in ears (tinnitus).

Tests & Diagnostics

A history and physical exam will be performed. Tests to identify other ingestions and organ damage (such as kidney failure) will be performed.

Common tests: BHCG, Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), EKG, Urinalysis (UA).

Conventional treatment summary

There is no specific antidote. Treatment may include: observation, intravenous fluids and monitoring. If significant kidney failure occurs dialysis may be recommended. For more information and help call your local poison center at 1-800-222-1222.

Medical specialties

Medical Toxicology

This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug overdose (Motrin, Advil).