Nurofen is a well-established over-the-counter medication containing ibuprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) with a robust clinical profile. It is specifically formulated to provide effective, targeted relief from a variety of common pain conditions, including headaches, muscular aches, backache, period pain, and dental pain, while also reducing inflammation and fever. Its mechanism of action works at the source of pain, offering a reliable solution for adults and children (in specific formulations) seeking to restore daily comfort and function. This product card provides a comprehensive, expert overview of its proper use, benefits, and important safety information.

Features

• Active Ingredient: Ibuprofen (typically 200mg per tablet in standard adult formulations).
• Drug Class: Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID).
• Formulations: Available as film-coated tablets, caplets, liquid capsules for faster absorption, and suspensions for children.
• Mechanism of Action: Works by inhibiting the cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, thereby reducing the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals in the body that cause pain, inflammation, and fever.
• Onset of Action: Pain relief typically begins within 30 minutes.
• Duration of Action: Provides relief for up to 8 hours per dose.

Benefits

• Provides potent anti-inflammatory action, targeting the root cause of pain in conditions like sprains, strains, and arthritis, not just masking the sensation.
• Offers effective analgesia for mild to moderate pain, helping individuals resume normal daily activities with minimal disruption.
• Acts as an antipyretic, effectively reducing elevated body temperature associated with fevers and colds.
• Delivers targeted relief, allowing for a focused approach to managing specific painful conditions.
• Available in multiple formulations to suit different patient preferences and age groups, including options designed for faster absorption.

Common use

Nurofen is commonly used for the short-term relief of symptoms associated with a wide range of conditions. These include tension headaches and migraines; musculoskeletal pain such as backache, rheumatic pain, and muscular aches; dysmenorrhea (period pain); dental pain following procedures like extractions; and the pain and inflammation of non-serious arthritis. It is also indicated for the reduction of fever (antipyresis) in adults and children.

Dosage and direction

For Adults and Children over 12 years: The usual dose is 1-2 tablets (200-400mg ibuprofen) every 4-6 hours as required. Do not exceed 6 tablets (1200mg) in any 24-hour period. Leave at least 4 hours between doses. For Children: Use only specific Nurofen for Children products and follow the dosage instructions on the package carefully, which are based on the child’s weight and age. Do not give to children under 6 months of age unless directed by a doctor. Administration: Swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water. Do not chew, crush, or break them. It is best to take Nurofen with or after food to minimize the potential for stomach upset.

Precautions

• Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary to relieve your symptoms.
• Long-term use of NSAIDs requires medical supervision due to increased risks of serious side effects.
• Patients with a history of gastrointestinal disorders (e.g., ulcers, bleeding) should use with extreme caution and only under a doctor’s advice.
• Caution is advised in patients with a history of asthma, as NSAIDs can induce bronchospasm in susceptible individuals.
• Use with caution if you have kidney, liver, or heart problems, or if you are dehydrated.
• Consult a doctor before use if you are pregnant, think you might be pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

Contraindications

Nurofen is contraindicated and must not be used by individuals with:

• A known hypersensitivity (allergy) to ibuprofen, other NSAIDs (e.g., aspirin, naproxen), or any of the other ingredients in the product.
• A history of, or active, peptic ulceration or gastrointestinal bleeding.
• Severe heart failure, severe liver disease, or severe kidney failure.
• Third trimester of pregnancy.
• A history of asthma induced by the administration of salicylates or other NSAIDs.

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 effects such as indigestion, heartburn, nausea, and abdominal pain. Uncommon (may affect up to 1 in 100 people): Headache, dizziness, vomiting, diarrhea, gas (flatulence), constipation. Rare but serious (seek immediate medical attention if experienced):

• Signs of gastrointestinal bleeding: vomiting blood or particles that look like coffee grounds, black tarry stools, or bloody diarrhea.
• Signs of an allergic reaction: skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (which may cause difficulty in breathing or swallowing).
• Signs of severe skin reactions: blistering or peeling of the skin.
• Signs of cardiovascular events: chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness, or slurring of speech.
• Signs of liver problems: yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine.
• Signs of kidney problems: passing less or no urine, swelling of the legs and feet.

Drug interaction

Ibuprofen can interact with several other medications. It is crucial to inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking:

• Other NSAIDs, including low-dose aspirin (increased risk of side effects).
• Anticoagulants like warfarin or novel oral anticoagulants (NOACs) (increased risk of bleeding).
• Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisolone) (increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration or bleeding).
• Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) (increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding).
• ACE inhibitors, Angiotensin-II Receptor Antagonists (ARBs), and diuretics (may reduce the effect of these blood pressure medicines and impair kidney function).
• Methotrexate (ibuprofen may increase the blood levels of methotrexate, increasing its toxicity).
• Lithium (ibuprofen may increase lithium levels in the blood).

Missed dose

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

Overdose

Symptoms: Overdose symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, drowsiness, dizziness, headache, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and in severe cases, metabolic acidosis, gastrointestinal bleeding, hypothermia, renal failure, coma, and convulsions. Action: In case of overdose, seek immediate medical attention or contact a Poisons Information Centre, even if you feel well. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a medical professional. Take the medicine packet with you to show the doctor.

Storage

• Store below 25°C (77°F) in a dry place.
• Keep all medicines out of the sight and reach of children.
• Do not use this medicine after the expiry date which is stated on the carton and blister pack after “EXP”. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month.
• Do not dispose of medications via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medicines no longer required.

Disclaimer

This product information is intended for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. It 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. Always read the label and package leaflet before using any medication.

Reviews

“Nurofen has been my go-to for migraines for years. Unlike other painkillers, it consistently works within the hour and allows me to get back to my day. I appreciate that it tackles the inflammation that I believe is part of my headache.” – Sarah K. “As a physiotherapist, I often deal with musculoskeletal pain. I find Nurofen’s anti-inflammatory action is highly effective for my patients with acute soft tissue injuries. It’s a reliable part of a comprehensive management plan that includes rest and ice.” – Mark T., Physiotherapist. “I use the liquid capsules for period pain, and the difference is night and day. The relief is fast and lasts for hours, which is crucial for being able to function at work. It’s the only thing that works effectively for me.” – Jenna L. “We keep Nurofen for Children in our medicine cabinet. It’s very effective at bringing down high fevers quickly when our child is unwell, and the syringe makes dosing accurate and easy.” – The Davis Family.