Do Advil Tablets and Capsules Contain Calories?

Understanding Calories in Advil

Advil is one of the most popular over-the-counter medications used to treat minor aches and pains, headaches, arthritis, and other inflammatory conditions. But like any medication, Advil contains inactive ingredients along with the active drug that can contribute calories and affect your health.

In this article, we’ll look at the key facts about calories in Advil, including:

• Active and inactive ingredients
• Number of calories per serving
• How it impacts calorie intake
• Effects on metabolism
• Safer alternatives

Let’s examine what’s known about the calories in Advil to make informed decisions regarding use.

Advil Ingredients and Dosage

The active ingredient in Advil is ibuprofen, a common non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Ibuprofen works by blocking enzymes that cause pain and inflammation.

The standard adult dosage is 200-400mg of ibuprofen taken every 4 to 6 hours as needed. The maximum daily dose is 1,200mg.

In addition to ibuprofen, Advil contains various inactive ingredients as binding agents, fillers, preservatives, and solvents. Potential inactive ingredients include:

• Gelatin
• Corn starch
• Glycerin
• Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose
• Iron oxides
• Microcrystalline cellulose
• Pharmaceutical ink
• Povidone
• Propylene glycol
• Shellac
• Sodium lauryl sulfate
• Sodium starch glycolate
• Stearic acid
• Titanium dioxide

How Many Calories are in Advil?

To determine calories in Advil, we need to look at the inactive ingredients that provide calories. The main calorie contributors are:

Gelatin

Gelatin is made by boiling animal bones, skins, and connective tissue. It contains 2 calories per gram.

Stearic Acid

This saturated fatty acid provides 9 calories per gram.

Glycerin

Glycerin supplies 4 calories per gram.

Other inactive components like cornstarch, cellulose, and titanium dioxide are indigestible fibers or minerals, so they do not contribute any calories.

The exact calorie count can vary slightly between Advil products depending on the specific inactive ingredients used:

• Advil tablets = Approximately 1.4 calories per tablet
• Advil gelcaps = Approximately 2 calories per capsule
• Advil liquid gels = Approximately 2 calories per capsule

So in a standard 200mg dose, you’re getting about 1-2 calories from the inactive components. It’s not a high number, but can add up if you take Advil frequently throughout the day.

How It Affects Your Calorie Intake

For most people, the small amount of calories in Advil will not make a big impact on daily calorie intake. But here are a few things to keep in mind:

• The calories can accumulate if you take multiple doses per day.
• The calories don’t provide any nutritional benefit – they are “empty” calories.
• If counting calories strictly, remember to account for Advil’s calories.
• The sodium in Advil may cause water retention, which temporarily increases weight.
• Some inactive ingredients like stearic acid are unhealthy fats.

Also note that Advil is not recommended for long-term daily use due to potential side effects. Using it sparingly will minimize any calories consumed.

How Advil Affects Metabolism

Some research indicates NSAID pain relievers like ibuprofen may alter metabolism with chronic, high-dose use. Possible effects include:

• Decreased lipid oxidation and fat burning
• Impaired glucose metabolism
• Increased appetite and calorie intake
• Changes in gut bacteria linked to weight gain
• Water retention from salt, causing weight gain

However, most studies showing metabolic effects used high doses in mice. One human study giving 600mg ibuprofen 3 times daily found no change in metabolism.

Overall the evidence is limited. Talk to your doctor about metabolic concerns with long-term Advil use, especially at high doses.

Safer Alternatives

To avoid calories or potential metabolic impacts, consider these safer alternatives to Advil when possible:

Acetaminophen

Tylenol contains no calories or unhealthy additives. But use carefully and avoid alcohol.

Aspirin

Similar anti-inflammatory properties to Advil without calories or sketchy compounds.

Natural anti-inflammatories

Turmeric, ginger, boswellia, omega-3s, tart cherry, and other natural options may reduce inflammation without calories or side effects.

Healthy lifestyle habits

A balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management, and proper sleep also curb inflammation safely.

Physical therapy

PT helps resolve underlying musculoskeletal issues causing chronic pain.

The Bottom Line

Ultimately the calories in Advil are negligible for occasional use. But healthier anti-inflammatory alternatives exist without concerning additives or potential long-term effects on metabolism or weight.

Use Advil sparingly when absolutely needed for pain or headaches. And always follow dosage guidelines carefully to avoid side effects. Discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.