What Happens When We Cut an Eight Hundred Mg Ibuprofen Tablet in Half?

When you cut an 800mg ibuprofen tablet in half, you end up with two 400mg fragments. However, this method is not without its considerations.

Assumptions and Cautions

First, this is assuming that we're dealing with regular ibuprofen, not the sustained-release variety. Cutting a non-scored sustained-release tablet might disrupt its intended slow-release mechanism, leading to a non-sustained effect. The relief provided by these pills is designed to last longer, usually around 6-8 hours. You should consult your pharmacist before altering the dosage or taking straightforward steps to modify your medication.

Accuracy of Dosage After Cutting

It's important to note that cutting an ibuprofen tablet in half may not always yield an exact 400mg dose. Some tablets are not designed to be scored, and as a result, the active ingredient (in this case, ibuprofen) might not be evenly distributed throughout the pill. This could lead to variations in the amount of active ingredient in each half, potentially affecting the efficacy of the medication.

Alternatives and Safety Considerations

The best approach is to purchase 400mg ibuprofen tablets directly, which avoids the uncertainty of splitting a 800mg tablet. If you continue to need 800mg of ibuprofen, it is often safer and more accurate to take two 400mg tablets, rather than risk an inaccurate dose by cutting the 800mg tablet in half.

Conclusion

In summary, while it is generally safe to cut an 800mg ibuprofen tablet in half, there are potential drawbacks to this practice, including dosage inaccuracies and compromised medication efficacy. Always prioritize safety and accuracy, and consider speaking to a pharmacist if you are concerned about your dosage or have specific needs.

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