Ibuprofen, Advil, and Motrin essentially refer to the same medication, with Advil and Motrin being brand names for the generic drug ibuprofen. Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to reduce fever, pain, and inflammation. Advil and Motrin are commercial names under which ibuprofen is marketed by different pharmaceutical companies.
The primary difference among them lies in their branding and the specific formulations that each brand might offer. For example, Advil and Motrin can come in various forms such as tablets, caplets, or liquid gels, and may include different dosages or additional ingredients designed for specific uses, such as extended-release versions or combinations with other medications.
Despite these branding and formulation differences, the active ingredient remains ibuprofen, which means that their therapeutic effects and potential side effects are similar. If you have a preference or need a specific form or dosage, the choice between Advil and Motrin might come down to availability, cost, or personal preference. However, they are used interchangeably and should be taken according to the dosage instructions on the packaging or provided by a healthcare professional.