[Tgirl]

What is the differnce or should I say is there a difference between taking 4 200 mg of advil and taking 1 prescription 800mg of iburophen. [)]

[jennifermw]

Hi there is absolutly no difference they are exactly the same

[Tgirl]

Thats what I thought but then I 'm thinking why does it have to be prescription then. Why not just OTC.

[crystalbuell]

[)]I've always heard that their is some sort of different ingrediants in Perscription IBU, apposed to OTC's.

NOT sure if this was an accurate statement, but I know from experiance with my migraines, that I can take 4 of the 200mgs.IBU OTC and it doesn't compare to the IBU 800's that I get perscribed.
The perscribed DEFINETLY works a heck of alot better.

[8D][^]

[Tgirl]

Well thats what my sister says. she always gets the prescroption ones for her cramps I always thought it was the same thing but like she says then why makeit a prescription. I'd like to know for sure.

(don't you love the smileys) [][:I]

[Tgirl]

Kirby Can you please help ????

[jayjay]

In theory, there should be no difference between taking 4x200mg ibuprofen tablets or 1x800 mg tablet.
BUT...
the FDA decides if a drug is available on prescription, or OTC (over the counter).
Prescription drugs are considered safe for use under the supervision of a doctor, while OTC drugs are safe to use for self-medication providing you read the label carefully.
In the case of ibuprofen, the OTC 200 mg tablet and the prescription 800 mg tablet are used to treat different conditions. The 200 mg OTC product is used for minor aches and pains, and the 800 mg tablet is used to treat conditions such as arthritis under the care of a doctor. Ibupfrofen can cause side effects (often serious) so it is really important to take only as directed. You will note the label of the OTC package clearly states a maximum dose, and maximum daily dose and by exceeding the recommended dose, without adequate medical supervision, you are putting yourself at greater risk of side effects.

[girl_called_kill]

i am a pharmacy student
there is no difference between the two
Drs write it on prescription because if some people have a drug plan then they wont have to pay for it. alot of drug plans exspecailly here in canada do not pay for items that can be purchased over the counter

they both conatin the same ingredients. sometimes if we run low on one we just open the bottles that can be bought over the counter and dispense them to customers. there is no real difference