Generic Motrin is a non‑prescription ibuprofen medication that relieves pain, reduces fever, and eases inflammation.
When you see Motrin on a pharmacy shelf, you’re looking at a brand‑name version of ibuprofen, a non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drug (NSAID) that’s been used since the 1960s. The generic counterpart contains the same active ingredient, same strength, and the same therapeutic effect, but it’s sold without the brand markup, which drives the price down dramatically.
In the UK and many other markets, ibuprofen is classified as an over‑the‑counter (OTC) medication. That means you don’t need a prescription, but you still have to abide by dosage limits - typically 200‑400mg every 4‑6hours, not exceeding 1,200mg per day for self‑medication.
Buying offline at a high‑street pharmacy often adds a retail markup of 20‑40%. Online retailers, especially those that ship in bulk, can undercut that by offering discounts, subscription plans, or clearance stock. A 100‑tablet pack that costs £6 in‑store might be found for £3.50 on a reputable site - a 40% saving.
Beyond price, online shops give you the freedom to compare multiple brands side‑by‑side, read real‑user reviews, and check the exact formulation (gel caps vs. tablets, sugar‑free liquid vs. chewable).
Not every website that boasts “cheap ibuprofen” is legitimate. Follow this three‑step checklist:
When a site meets all three, you can move on to price hunting.
| Product | Active Ingredient | Typical Dose (mg) | Price per 100tablets (GBP) | OTC Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Generic Motrin | Ibuprofen | 200mg | £3.50 | Yes |
| Motrin (Brand) | Ibuprofen | 200mg | £6.00 | Yes |
| Acetaminophen (Paracetamol) | Paracetamol | 500mg | £2.80 | Yes |
| Naproxen | Naproxen Sodium | 220mg | £4.20 | Yes |
The table shows why generic ibuprofen (the first row) is the most cost‑effective choice if you’re after an NSAID. Acetaminophen is cheaper still, but it works differently and isn’t an anti‑inflammatory.
Even though ibuprofen is readily available, it isn’t risk‑free. The most frequent side effects include stomach upset, mild dizziness, and occasional rash. Long‑term high‑dose use can irritate the gastrointestinal lining and, in rare cases, affect kidney function.
Drug interactions matter, too. Ibuprofen can lessen the blood‑thinning effect of warfarin, elevate blood pressure when combined with certain antihypertensives, and increase bleeding risk with other NSAIDs like naproxen. Always double‑check a drug interaction checker before adding ibuprofen to an existing regimen.
If you have a history of stomach ulcers, a proton‑pump inhibitor (PPI) may be required before taking any NSAID, including ibuprofen. In those cases, an acetaminophen‑based product can provide pain relief without irritating the lining.
For chronic inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, a longer‑acting NSAID like naproxen or a prescription‑strength ibuprofen may be recommended by a doctor. Always discuss long‑term use with a healthcare professional.
Follow those steps and you’ll end up with a safe, cheap supply of ibuprofen that won’t break the bank.
Yes. Both contain the same 200mg ibuprofen per tablet and work identically. The only difference is price and branding.
In the UK and most countries, ibuprofen up to 1,200mg per day is available over the counter, so you can order it online as long as the retailer is licensed.
Check for a visible GPhC or NABP registration number, clear ingredient labeling, a privacy policy, and a straightforward return process.
People with ulcer disease, severe heart failure, kidney impairment, or who are on blood‑thinners should consult a doctor before using ibuprofen.
For a 100‑tablet pack, generic ibuprofen is typically £3.50, naproxen around £4.20, and the brand Motrin about £6.00. Prices vary by retailer and bulk discounts.
Ibuprofen is generally avoided during the third trimester. If you need pain relief while pregnant, talk to your GP about safer alternatives.
Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the bottle sealed to protect against moisture.
Reputable sites have a clear refund policy. They usually accept returns within 14‑30 days if the product is unopened and the mistake is on their end.
