Ibuprofen - How long does it take to work and last?

Ibuprofen takes about 20 to 30 minutes to start working and its maximum effects are usually seen within 1 to 2 hours. For some people who have had pain for weeks or months, it may take two to three weeks of regular dosing before you notice some relief.

Food can increase the time it takes for ibuprofen to be absorbed, although it won’t affect how much is absorbed. Taking ibuprofen on an empty stomach may give you faster symptom relief, although it may increase your risk of stomach-related side effects, such as indigestion.

One dose of ibuprofen provides pain relief for four to six hours. But it may take at least 10 hours for your body to completely rid your system of ibuprofen.