Nurofen is a well-established, trusted brand of over-the-counter analgesic and anti-inflammatory medication. Its active ingredient, ibuprofen, is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) clinically proven to provide effective relief from a variety of common pain and inflammatory conditions. This medication works by inhibiting the body’s production of prostaglandins, chemicals that cause pain, fever, and inflammation. Available in multiple formulations, including tablets, caplets, and liquid capsules, Nurofen offers a reliable solution for managing acute discomfort and restoring daily function.

Features

• Active Ingredient: Ibuprofen (typically 200mg per standard adult tablet, other strengths available).
• Drug Class: Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID).
• Formulations: Coated tablets, liquid capsules for faster absorption, and suspensions for children.
• Rapid Action: Designed for quick dissolution and absorption into the bloodstream.
• Targeted Formulations: Specific products available for period pain, back pain, and tension headaches.
• Coating: Many tablets feature a smooth coating to aid swallowing.

Benefits

• Provides effective relief from mild to moderate pain, including headaches, migraines, dental pain, and muscular aches.
• Reduces inflammation at the source of pain, such as in sprains, strains, and arthritis.
• Acts as an antipyretic to lower elevated body temperature during a fever.
• Offers a fast-acting solution, with many users reporting the onset of relief within 30 minutes.
• Enables a return to normal daily activities by effectively managing disruptive pain symptoms.
• Available in a variety of formats to suit individual patient preferences and needs.

Common use

Nurofen is commonly used for the short-term symptomatic relief of:

• Headaches and migraines
• Toothache and pain following dental procedures
• Period pain (dysmenorrhea)
• Backache
• Muscular and rheumatic pain
• Pain associated with non-serious arthritis
• Fever (pyrexia) and symptoms associated with colds and influenza

Dosage and direction

Always read the enclosed leaflet before use. The following is general guidance for adults and adolescents (12 years and older).

• The usual dose is 1 tablet (200mg) every 4-6 hours as required.
• If necessary, a second tablet (total 400mg) may be taken, but this should not be the first dose.
• Do not exceed 6 tablets (1200mg) in any 24-hour period.
• Tablets should be swallowed whole with water; do not chew, crush, or break them.
• Take with or after food to minimize the potential for stomach upset.
• Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary to control your symptoms.

Precautions

• Consult a doctor or pharmacist before use if you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• Use with caution if you have a history of asthma, as NSAIDs can exacerbate symptoms in some susceptible individuals.
• Long-term use requires medical supervision due to increased risks of gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and renal adverse effects.
• Caution is advised in patients with a history of liver or kidney impairment, heart failure, high blood pressure, or dehydration.
• Elderly patients are at greater risk of experiencing serious side effects and should use the minimum effective dose.
• This medicine may mask the symptoms of infection, such as fever and pain.

Contraindications

Nurofen must not be taken by individuals who:

• Have had an allergic reaction (e.g., asthma, wheezing, itchy rash, swelling of the face or throat) to ibuprofen, aspirin, or any other NSAID.
• Have a history of, or active, stomach ulcers or bleeding disorders.
• Have severe heart, liver, or kidney failure.
• Are in the last trimester of pregnancy (after 28 weeks).
• Are taking other NSAIDs, including high-dose aspirin or COX-2 inhibitors.

Possible side effect

Like all medicines, Nurofen can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Common (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

• Gastrointestinal: Indigestion, heartburn, nausea, abdominal pain.
• Neurological: Headache, dizziness. Uncommon (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):
• Vomiting, diarrhoea, wind (flatulence), constipation.
• Skin rash, itching. Rare/Serious (seek immediate medical attention if experienced):
• Signs of gastrointestinal bleeding: vomiting blood or dark particles (like coffee grounds), black tarry stools.
• Signs of an allergic reaction: swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing, severe skin reactions.
• Signs of heart problems: chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness in one part of the body.
• Signs of liver problems: yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine.
• Signs of kidney problems: passing less or no urine, swelling of ankles.

Drug interaction

Ibuprofen can interact with several other medicines. Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking:

• Other NSAIDs: Including aspirin and COX-2 inhibitors (increased risk of side effects).
• Anticoagulants: Such as warfarin, clopidogrel (increased risk of bleeding).
• Corticosteroids: Such as prednisolone (increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration).
• SSRI antidepressants: Such as citalopram, fluoxetine (increased risk of bleeding).
• ACE inhibitors and Angiotensin-II Receptor Antagonists (ARBs): Used for high blood pressure (effect may be reduced, risk of kidney impairment increased).
• Diuretics (water tablets): Effect may be reduced.
• Methotrexate: Blood levels of methotrexate may be increased, raising the risk of its side effects.

Missed dose

Nurofen is taken on an “as-needed” basis for pain relief. It is not a regular scheduled medication. Therefore, the concept of a “missed dose” does not typically apply. Simply take your next dose when you require further pain relief, ensuring you wait at least 4 hours since your last dose and do not exceed the maximum daily dose.

Overdose

• Symptoms: Overdose can cause nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, drowsiness, dizziness, headache, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), and in severe cases, gastrointestinal bleeding, metabolic acidosis, kidney failure, seizures, and coma.
• Action: If you suspect an overdose, even if no symptoms are present, seek immediate medical attention or contact a Poisons Information Centre. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a medical professional. Take the medicine packet with you to the hospital or doctor.

Storage

• Store in the original package below 25°C (77°F) in a dry place.
• Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the blister pack and carton.
• Do not dispose of medication via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medicines no longer required.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, pharmacist, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before starting any new treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. The information provided is based on the typical properties of the drug and may not cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, or interactions.

Reviews

• “As a nurse with chronic tension headaches, I find Nurofen to be the most reliable and fast-acting OTC option. It allows me to get through my shift without being distracted by pain.” – Sarah K., 42
• “I’ve used Nurofen for years for my occasional back pain. The targeted relief formulation works effectively within the hour. I always ensure I take it with food.” – Mark T., 58
• “I keep the liquid capsules in my medicine cabinet for fever and aches associated with seasonal flu. It’s effective for reducing a high temperature and making rest more comfortable.” – Jennifer L., 35
• “While effective for my period pain, I did experience some mild heartburn. I now make sure to have a small snack before taking it, which has completely solved the issue.” – Chloe R., 29