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Advil Cold, Flu or Sinus FAQs

Find answers to your questions about Cold, Flu or Sinus

 

Health Conditions

  • What is the definition of a fever?

    A fever is defined as the body's response to a disease characterized by a rise in body temperature. A rectal temperature above 100.4°F or an oral temperature above 99.4°F is usually considered the threshold for a fever.

  • I have diabetes. Can I take Advil Cold & Sinus?

    Advil Cold & Sinus contains the decongestant pseudoephedrine. Phenylephrine, and similar drugs such as pseudoephedrine, should be used cautiously by people with diabetes because it may increase blood sugar levels. Diabetes is a serious illness, and no OTC medications should be taken without doctor consultation.

  • I have diabetes. Can I take Advil Allergy Sinus?

    Advil Allergy Sinus contains the decongestant pseudoephedrine. Phenylephrine, and similar drugs such as pseudoephedrine, should be used cautiously by people with diabetes because it may increase blood sugar levels. Diabetes is a serious illness, and no OTC medications should be taken without doctor consultation.

  • Can I take Advil Allergy Sinus if I have an ulcer condition?

    We do not recommend taking Advil Allergy Sinus if you have an ulcer because of the increased risk of severe stomach bleeding. Please consult your doctor for appropriate advice before taking if you have an ulcer.

  • Can I take Advil Multi-Symptom Cold & Flu if I have diabetes?

    Diabetes is a serious illness, and no OTC medications should be taken without doctor consultation. Always consult with your physician before taking an Advil cold, sinus or allergy product. Products that contain phenylephrine should be used cautiously by people with diabetes because it may increase blood sugar levels.

  • What is the significance of the label warning regarding MAOIs?

    Sympathomimetic decongestants such as phenylephrine, which are contained in the Advil cold, sinus and allergy products, are contraindicated in (should not be taken by) patients who are taking prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI) and in those who have taken MAOIs within the past 2 weeks, as serious health problems can develop. MAOIs include certain drugs for depression, psychiatric, or emotional conditions, or Parkinson’s disease. If you do not know or if you are unsure whether your prescription drug medicine contains an MAOI, ask a doctor or pharmacist before taking this product.

  • What causes fever?

    Fever is associated with a wide variety of causes. Fever is most often due to bacterial or viral infections such as the common cold, the flu, an ear infection, or sore throat. However, fever can also signal more seri ous infection or disease therefore it is important that if fever gets worse or lasts more than 3 days that you consult your healthcare provider.

  • Do other symptoms accompany a fever?

    It is possible that other symptoms can accompany a fever. Fevers can be associated with a rapid heartbeat, increased breathing rate, as well as flushing, sweating, or warm skin. Lack of appetite and a tired feeling can also accompany a fever. An important thing to think about is dehydration, which can become serious if not carefully monitored. This is why it is important that if a fever gets worse or lasts more than 3 days after starting Advil, that you consult your healthcare provider.

  • Has ibuprofen ever been associated with Reye’s?

    Medical literature does not show an association between ibuprofen-containing products and Reye's syndrome. Reye’s syndrome appears to be associated with aspirin and aspirin-containing products used in certain illnesses. Although ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and aspirin can all lower fever, ibuprofen and acetaminophen belong to different chemical classes than aspirin and are handled by the body differently.

  • Can I take this product if I am pregnant or nursing a baby?

    If pregnant or breast-feeding, ask a health professional before use. It is especially important not to use ibuprofen at 20 weeks or later in pregnancy unless definitely directed to do so by a doctor because it may cause problems in the unborn child or complications during delivery.

  • Can I take Advil products if I have an ulcer condition?

    We do not recommend taking Advil if you have an ulcer because of the increased risk of severe stomach bleeding. Please consult your doctor for appropriate advice before taking Advil if you have an ulcer.

  • I am allergic to gluten. Is it all right for me to take this product?

    Gluten is not added to Advil products during the manufacturing process. However, we cannot guarantee that minute amounts of gluten or gluten derivatives are not contained in raw materials obtained from various suppliers for our manufacturing process since the end product is not tested for gluten. You should check with your doctor if you have any concerns about taking this product.

  • I have diabetes. Can I take Advil Cold & Sinus or Advil Sinus Congestion & Pain?

    Advil Cold & Sinus contains the decongestant pseudoephedrine and Advil Sinus Congestion & Pain contains the decongestant phenylephrine. Phenylephrine, and similar drugs such as pseudoephedrine, should be used cautiously by people with diabetes because it may increase blood sugar levels. Diabetes is a serious illness, and no OTC medications should be taken without doctor consultation. Always consult with your physician before taking an Advil cold, sinus or allergy product.

  • Can I take Advil Sinus Congestion & Pain or Advil Multi-Symptom Cold & Flu if I’m allergic to gluten?

    Gluten is not added to Advil products during the manufacturing process. However, we cannot guarantee that minute amounts of gluten or gluten derivatives are not contained in raw materials obtained from various suppliers for our manufacturing process since the end product is not tested for gluten.

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Ingredients

Interactions

Side Effects

  • What effect will Advil products have on the kidneys?

    When taken as directed on the label, adverse effects of Advil on the kidneys are uncommon, but higher doses may produce adverse effects to the kidneys. Consult your physician if you are taking a diuretic, have kidney disease or have any other concerns before taking Advil.

  • Will Advil Respiratory products cause indigestion or upset stomach?

    There is a possibility that these products may upset your stomach. If this occurs, consider taking medication with food or milk. Discontinue use if the stomach upset continues.

  • Does Ibuprofen cause ulcers?

    Ibuprofen may cause ulcers but usually at higher prescription doses or when administered for long periods of time. Studies have proven that Advil is safe and effective when taken as directed. If you have a history of stomach problems, such as heartburn, ask your doctor before using Advil.

  • Can this product cause hypertension?

    This product may slightly increase blood pressure and heart rate. Talk to your doctors before taking this product if you are on antihypertensive (high blood pressure) medication.

  • Can this product cause liver damage?

    Liver damage from NSAIDs is rare, but this medication should not be used in persons with cirrhotic liver diseases because there is an increased risk for bleeding problems and renal failure.

  • Is ibuprofen addictive? Will it cause withdrawal?

    No. Ibuprofen is not habit forming, nor does it demonstrate addictive properties. Withdrawal symptoms have not been observed. Advil is non-narcotic. Studies indicate that ibuprofen affects the body (peripherally active), but not the brain (it’s not centrally active).

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