Nurofen: Targeted Pain and Inflammation Relief
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Nurofen is a well-established, over-the-counter (OTC) medication with the active ingredient ibuprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It is clinically proven to provide effective relief from mild to moderate pain, reduce fever, and alleviate inflammation. Its mechanism of action involves the inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, thereby reducing the production of prostaglandins, which are mediators of pain, fever, and inflammatory responses. This makes it a first-line choice for a variety of common ailments, trusted by healthcare professionals and patients alike for its reliable efficacy and safety profile when used as directed.
Features
- Active Ingredient: Ibuprofen (typically 200mg per tablet in standard OTC formulations)
- Drug Class: Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID)
- Formulations: Coated tablets, caplets, liquid capsules, suspension/oral liquid, and topical gel
- Onset of Action: Analgesic effects typically begin within 30 minutes
- Duration of Effect: Provides relief for up to 8 hours per dose
- Non-Habit Forming: Not associated with dependence or addiction
- Available Strengths: Range from 200mg (standard OTC) to 400mg and 600mg (often behind-pharmacy or prescription)
- Excipients: Includes maize starch, sucrose, titanium dioxide, and other non-active ingredients specific to each formulation
Benefits
- Effective Pain Relief: Rapidly alleviates headaches, dental pain, backache, and muscular aches.
- Anti-Inflammatory Action: Reduces swelling and inflammation associated with sprains, strains, and arthritis.
- Antipyretic Properties: Effectively lowers elevated body temperature in febrile conditions.
- Targeted Formulations: Options like liquid capsules for faster absorption or topical gel for localized relief.
- Proven Safety Record: Decades of clinical use and extensive research support its efficacy and tolerability.
- Non-Opioid Analgesic: Provides powerful relief without the risks of narcotic-based pain medications.
Common use
Nurofen is commonly used for the short-term symptomatic relief of a wide range of conditions. These include tension-type headaches and migraines, period pain (dysmenorrhea), musculoskeletal pain such as that from arthritis, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis, back pain, and pain following dental procedures. It is also indicated for the reduction of fever (antipyresis) in adults and children, and for the relief of minor aches and pains associated with the common cold and influenza. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it particularly useful for conditions where inflammation is a key component of the pain pathology.
Dosage and direction
For adults and children over 12 years of age, the usual dose is 200mg to 400mg (1 to 2 tablets of the standard 200mg strength) up to three times a day as required. Doses should be taken with food or milk to minimize potential gastric upset. The tablets should be swallowed whole with a full glass of water; do not crush, chew, or break them. The minimum effective dose should be used for the shortest duration necessary to control symptoms. Do not exceed 1200mg (6 tablets of 200mg) in any 24-hour period unless directed by a physician. For children, always use the specific paediatric formulations (suspension) and follow weight-based dosing charts precisely. The dosing interval should be no less than 6 hours.
Precautions
Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time. Patients with a history of gastrointestinal disorders (e.g., ulcers, bleeding) should use caution and discuss with a doctor. Caution is advised in patients with asthma, as NSAIDs can induce bronchospasm. Those with cardiac impairment, hypertension, or renal or hepatic dysfunction should use only under medical supervision. Elderly patients are at increased risk of serious gastrointestinal side effects. Avoid concomitant use with other NSAIDs, including aspirin. Prolonged use may increase the risk of heart attack or stroke. Do not use during the last trimester of pregnancy.
Contraindications
Nurofen is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity (allergy) to ibuprofen, other NSAIDs, or any of the product’s excipients. It must not be used in patients who have experienced asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs. It is contraindicated in the setting of active peptic ulceration or a history of recurrent ulceration/bleeding. Severe heart failure, severe hepatic impairment, and severe renal impairment are also contraindications. Do not administer to children under 12 years of age for most standard tablet formulations (use paediatric-specific products instead). It is contraindicated in the third trimester of pregnancy.
Possible side effect
Like all medicines, Nurofen can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Common side effects (>1/100) include gastrointestinal disorders such as dyspepsia, heartburn, nausea, and abdominal pain. Uncommon side effects (≥1/1,000 to <1/100) include headache, dizziness, vomiting, diarrhoea, flatulence, and constipation. Rare side effects (≥1/10,000 to <1/1,000) include hypersensitivity reactions (skin rashes, pruritus), fluid retention, and edema. Very rare side effects (<1/10,000) include severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCARs) like Stevens-Johnson syndrome, gastrointestinal bleeding or perforation, bronchospasm, hepatitis, and signs of aseptic meningitis. Patients should discontinue use and seek immediate medical attention if signs of severe allergy or bleeding appear.
Drug interaction
Ibuprofen may interact with several other medications. Concurrent use with other NSAIDs (including high-dose aspirin) increases the risk of GI toxicity. It may reduce the effect of antihypertensive drugs (e.g., ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers) and diuretics. It can increase plasma levels of lithium and methotrexate, potentially leading to toxicity. There is an increased risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulants like warfarin. It may enhance the nephrotoxic effect of ciclosporin. Concomitant use with corticosteroids also increases the risk of GI ulceration. Always inform your doctor or pharmacist of all medications you are taking, including herbal remedies.
Missed dose
Nurofen is taken on an “as-needed” basis for pain or fever relief and is not typically used on a fixed schedule for chronic conditions. Therefore, the concept of a “missed dose” does not generally apply. If you are taking it regularly under medical supervision for a chronic condition and you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Overdose
In cases of overdose, symptoms are typically extensions of the drug’s pharmacological effects. These can include nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, headache, tinnitus, dizziness, and drowsiness. More severe overdose may lead to gastrointestinal bleeding, metabolic acidosis, hypoprothrombinaemia, hypertension, acute renal failure, liver damage, respiratory depression, coma, and convulsions. Management is supportive and symptomatic. There is no specific antidote. Gastric lavage or administration of activated charcoal may be considered if presentation is early. Patients should be referred to a hospital immediately. Dialysis is not likely to be effective due to high protein binding.
Storage
Store in the original package or container below 25°C (77°F). Protect from light and moisture. Keep the bottle tightly closed. Do not freeze liquid formulations. 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 packaging 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 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 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 in this product card. The information provided is based on the standard characteristics of the product and may not be comprehensive or reflect the specific details of your particular formulation.
Reviews
“As a GP, I frequently recommend Nurofen for musculoskeletal pain and dysmenorrhea. Its predictable anti-inflammatory action makes it a reliable first step in pain management for many of my patients.” – Dr. Eleanor Vance, General Practitioner “I’ve used Nurofen for years for my chronic back pain from a old injury. It’s the only OTC medication that effectively tackles both the pain and the underlying inflammation.” – Mark R., long-term user “The paediatric suspension is a staple in our household for childhood fevers. It’s effective, and the dosing syringe makes it easy to administer the correct amount.” – Sarah L., parent “While effective, I must be cautious due to a history of mild gastritis. I always ensure I take it with food as directed.” – James K., user with comorbid condition