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Ibuprofen 400mg Tablets (84)

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Ibuprofen 400mg tablets provide effective relief from mild to moderate pain, including headaches, menstrual cramps, muscle aches, and symptoms of colds and flu. As a trusted NSAID (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug), these tablets also reduce inflammation and help lower fever. Fast-acting and long-lasting, Ibuprofen 400mg tablets are designed to help you feel more comfortable and get back to your day with ease. Available for purchase without a prescription, they offer convenient, over-the-counter relief.

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Overview

Active ingredients

What is it for?

How does it work?

How do you use it?

Warnings and precautions

Side effects

Drug interactions

FAQs

Download patent leaflet

Written By
Shazlee Ahsan
BSc Pharmacy, Independent Prescriber, PgDip Endocrinology, MSc Endocrinology, PgDip Infectious Diseases

Superintendant Pharmacist, Independent Prescriber


Checked By
Dr Sarah Thornton
MbChB, Coaching Academy diploma with distinction

GP, Medical coach


What is Ibuprofen?

Ibuprofen is part of a class of medications known as NSAIDs, which stands for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. These medications function by alleviating pain and reducing fever through the inhibition of certain natural substances in the body that cause inflammation. Ibuprofen is commonly used for the short-term relief of symptoms associated with mild to moderate pain. It is effective in treating various types of pain, including headaches, such as those caused by migraines, dental pain, menstrual cramps, and can also be used to reduce fever. This medication is often chosen for its ability to provide quick and effective relief from discomfort and inflammation.

What is the active ingredient in Ibuprofen 400mg tablets?

Each film-coated tablet contains 400 mg ibuprofen.

What is Ibuprofen used for?

Ibuprofen tablets can be taken to alleviate mild to moderate pain, reduce inflammation and swelling, and lower elevated body temperatures. Common uses of Ibuprofen include:
  • Relief from headaches and migraines
  • Management of back pain
  • Treatment of arthritic pain
  • Alleviation of toothache
  • Reduction of fever
  • Easing symptoms associated with the common cold and flu
  • Relief from menstrual cramps
  • Soothing muscle and joint pain
 

How does Ibuprofen work?

Ibuprofen works by inhibiting the activity of an enzyme called cyclooxygenase (COX). This enzyme plays a key role in the production of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that promote inflammation, pain, and fever in the body. When you experience an injury or illness, your body increases the production of prostaglandins in the affected area, leading to symptoms like swelling, pain, and an elevated temperature. By blocking the COX enzyme, ibuprofen reduces the production of prostaglandins, which in turn helps to alleviate these symptoms. Specifically, ibuprofen is non-selective, meaning it inhibits both COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes. COX-1 is involved in protecting the stomach lining and maintaining kidney function, while COX-2 is more directly involved in inflammatory processes. The inhibition of COX-2 primarily provides the pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects, while the inhibition of COX-1 can lead to some of the side effects associated with NSAIDs, such as stomach irritation. In summary, ibuprofen works by reducing the production of substances in the body that cause pain, inflammation, and fever, providing relief from these symptoms.  

How do you take Ibuprofen?

Always take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you are unsure about the instructions, consult your doctor or pharmacist for clarification. To minimize the risk of unwanted side effects, use the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible duration necessary to manage your symptoms. Ibuprofen should be used only for short-term relief. The appropriate dosage depends on the patient’s age and body weight. The recommended doses are as follows: For Mild to Moderate Pain and Fever:
  • Adults and adolescents weighing 40 kg or more (12 years and above):
    • 200 mg tablets: Take 1-2 tablets as a single dose or up to 3-4 times a day, with a 6-hour interval between doses as needed. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 6 tablets (1200 mg).
    • 400 mg tablets: Take ½ to 1 tablet as a single dose or up to 3-4 times a day, with a 6-hour interval between doses as needed. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 3 tablets (1200 mg).
For Migraine Headaches:
  • Adults and adolescents weighing 40 kg or more (12 years and above):
    • 200 mg tablets: Take 2 tablets as a single dose. If necessary, take 2 more tablets after a 6-hour interval. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 6 tablets (1200 mg).
    • 400 mg tablets: Take 1 tablet as a single dose. If necessary, take 1 more tablet after a 6-hour interval. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 3 tablets (1200 mg).
For Period Pain:
  • Adults and adolescents weighing 40 kg or more (12 years and above):
    • 200 mg tablets: Take 1-2 tablets 1-3 times a day, with a 4-6 hour interval between doses as needed. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 6 tablets (1200 mg).
    • 400 mg tablets: Take ½ to 1 tablet 1-3 times a day, with a 4-6 hour interval between doses as needed. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 3 tablets (1200 mg).
Tablets should be swallowed with a glass of water, preferably during or after a meal. If you have a sensitive stomach, it is recommended to take Ibuprofen during a meal. Tablets can be split in half to make them easier to swallow or to adjust the dosage. If you are an adult and your condition worsens or does not improve within 3 days for migraine headaches or fever, or within 4 days for pain and period pain, you should contact your doctor. If a child or adolescent requires this medicine for more than 3 days, or if symptoms worsen, consult a doctor. Use in Children: Ibuprofen is not recommended for children under 12 years old. Elderly Patients: If you are elderly, you should consult your doctor before using ibuprofen, as you may be more susceptible to side effects, particularly bleeding, ulcers, or perforation in the digestive tract, which can be fatal. Your doctor will provide appropriate advice. Patients with Reduced Kidney or Liver Function: If you have reduced kidney or liver function, consult your doctor before using ibuprofen. Your doctor will guide you on the appropriate usage. In Case of Overdose: If you or a child accidentally takes more ibuprofen than recommended, seek immediate medical attention or contact the nearest hospital for advice on the potential risks and appropriate actions. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, stomach pain, vomiting (which may be blood-streaked), diarrhea (less common), headache, gastrointestinal bleeding, blurred vision, ringing in the ears, confusion, shaky eye movements, and worsening of asthma in asthmatics. At higher doses, symptoms may include drowsiness, excitation, disorientation, chest pain, palpitations, loss of consciousness, convulsions (mainly in children), vertigo, weakness, dizziness, blood in the urine, low potassium levels, hyperkalemia, metabolic acidosis, increased prothrombin time/INR, acute renal failure, liver damage, respiratory depression, cyanosis, a cold sensation, and breathing difficulties. Agitation, somnolence, or coma may also occur, along with low blood pressure and reduced breathing. If You Miss a Dose: Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose. If you have any further questions about using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Who should not take Ibuprofen?

Do Not Take Ibuprofen If:

  • You are allergic to ibuprofen or any other ingredients in this medication (refer to section 6).
  • You have experienced allergic reactions, such as asthma, a runny nose, itchy skin rash, or swelling of the lips, face, tongue, or throat after taking aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) or other NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).
  • You have previously experienced gastrointestinal bleeding or perforation linked to the use of NSAIDs.
  • You currently have or have had stomach or intestinal ulcers or bleeding (duodenal ulcers), especially if you've had two or more episodes.
  • You have severe liver, kidney, or heart problems.
  • You are in the last three months of pregnancy.
  • You are severely dehydrated due to vomiting, diarrhea, or insufficient fluid intake.
  • You have active bleeding (including in the brain).
  • You have a condition of unknown origin affecting the formation of blood cells.
Ibuprofen is also contraindicated in children under 12 years of age.

Warnings and Precautions

Consult your doctor before taking ibuprofen if:
  • You have Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) or mixed connective tissue diseases.
  • You have a hereditary blood pigment disorder called porphyria.
  • You have chronic inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, or other stomach or intestinal issues.
  • You have blood cell formation disorders or problems with normal blood clotting mechanisms.
  • You have allergies, hay fever, asthma, chronic nasal swelling, sinus issues, adenoid issues, or chronic obstructive respiratory disorders, as these conditions increase the risk of airway constriction and difficulty breathing (bronchospasm).
  • You have liver, kidney, or heart problems.
  • You have recently undergone major surgery.
  • You are in the first six months of pregnancy.
  • You are breastfeeding.
  • You have an infection—please refer to the "Infections" section below.
  • You are taking ibuprofen for longer than recommended or at higher doses than advised, as this can lead to serious harm, including stomach/gut and kidney issues, as well as very low blood potassium levels, which can be fatal (see section 4).

Allergic Reactions

Signs of an allergic reaction to ibuprofen include breathing difficulties, swelling of the face and neck (angioedema), and chest pain. If you notice any of these symptoms, stop taking ibuprofen immediately and seek medical attention.

Infections

Ibuprofen can mask signs of infections, such as fever and pain, which may delay appropriate treatment and increase the risk of complications. This has been observed with bacterial pneumonia and bacterial skin infections related to chickenpox. If you have an infection and your symptoms persist or worsen, consult a doctor promptly.

Elderly Patients

Elderly patients are more prone to side effects, particularly bleeding and perforation in the digestive tract, which can be fatal.

Stomach and Intestinal Issues

If you have previously had a stomach or intestinal ulcer, especially one complicated by perforation or bleeding, be vigilant for any unusual abdominal symptoms and report them to your doctor immediately. This is especially important at the start of treatment, as the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding or ulceration is higher, particularly in elderly patients. If you experience bleeding or ulceration, discontinue treatment immediately. Bleeding, ulceration, or perforation can occur without warning, even in patients with no previous gastrointestinal issues, and may be fatal. The risk increases with higher doses of ibuprofen and when certain other medications are taken concurrently (see "Other Medicines and Ibuprofen" below).

Skin Reactions

Serious skin reactions have been reported with ibuprofen use. If you develop a skin rash, mucous membrane lesions, blisters, or other signs of an allergic reaction, stop taking ibuprofen immediately and seek medical attention. Avoid using ibuprofen during chickenpox (varicella) due to the risk of serious skin reactions.

Heart and Brain Effects

NSAIDs like ibuprofen may be associated with a small increased risk of heart attack or stroke, especially when used at high doses. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of treatment (7 days for adults or 3 days for children and adolescents). Discuss your treatment with your doctor if you have heart problems, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, or a family history of heart disease or stroke, or if you are a smoker.

Effects on the Kidneys

Ibuprofen can cause kidney damage, especially in patients with pre-existing kidney, heart, or liver problems, or those taking diuretics or ACE inhibitors, as well as in elderly patients. Stopping ibuprofen usually leads to recovery.

Aseptic Meningitis

Cases of aseptic meningitis (inflammation of the brain membrane without bacterial infection) have been reported during ibuprofen treatment, particularly in patients with autoimmune disorders like Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) or mixed connective tissue diseases, but also in patients without pre-existing conditions. Symptoms include a stiff neck, headache, nausea, vomiting, fever, or disorientation.

Other Precautions

Rarely, severe acute hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., anaphylactic shock) have been observed. If you experience any signs of a hypersensitivity reaction, stop taking ibuprofen immediately and seek medical attention. Ibuprofen can temporarily inhibit blood platelet function, so patients with blood clotting disorders should be closely monitored. Prolonged use of painkillers for headaches can make them worse (medication overuse headache). If you experience frequent or daily headaches despite using headache medication, stop taking ibuprofen and consult your doctor. Habitual use of painkillers can cause permanent kidney damage and increase the risk of kidney failure. Ibuprofen may mask the symptoms of an infection (fever, pain, and swelling) and temporarily prolong bleeding time. It may also decrease your chances of becoming pregnant. If you are planning to become pregnant or have difficulty conceiving, inform your doctor.

Use in Children and Adolescents

Ibuprofen should not be used in children under 12 years old. It may cause kidney problems in dehydrated adolescents.

Serious Skin Reactions

Serious skin reactions, including exfoliative dermatitis, erythema multiforme, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, DRESS, and AGEP, have been reported with ibuprofen use. If you notice any symptoms of these reactions, stop using ibuprofen immediately and seek medical attention.

Alcohol

Avoid alcohol while taking ibuprofen, as it may enhance side effects, particularly those affecting the stomach, intestines, or central nervous system.

Pregnancy, Breastfeeding, and Fertility

If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, think you might be pregnant, or are planning to have a baby, consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking this medicine. Do not take ibuprofen in the last 3 months of pregnancy, as it could harm your unborn child or cause complications during delivery. Use in the first 6 months of pregnancy should only be done if absolutely necessary and under medical advice. If taken for more than a few days after 20 weeks of pregnancy, ibuprofen can cause kidney problems in the unborn baby, potentially leading to low amniotic fluid levels or narrowing of a blood vessel in the baby's heart. If you need treatment for more than a few days, your doctor may recommend additional monitoring. Ibuprofen appears in breast milk in very small amounts, so breastfeeding usually does not need to be stopped during short-term treatment. However, if longer treatment is required, consider early weaning.

Driving and Using Machines

Ibuprofen generally does not affect the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, high doses may cause side effects such as fatigue, drowsiness, vertigo, or visual disturbances, which could impair your ability to drive or operate machinery safely. Alcohol consumption can exacerbate these effects.

Sodium Content

Ibuprofen contains less than 1 mmol of sodium (23 mg) per 200 mg/400 mg tablet, meaning it is essentially sodium-free.

Effects on the Kidneys

Ibuprofen can cause kidney problems even in patients without prior kidney issues, leading to swelling of the legs, heart failure, or high blood pressure in susceptible individuals. Stopping ibuprofen usually leads to recovery.

What are the side effects with Ibuprofen?

Like all medications, ibuprofen can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. The occurrence of side effects largely depends on the dosage and can vary from person to person. The most commonly observed side effects are related to the gastrointestinal system. These can include peptic ulcers, perforation, or gastrointestinal bleeding, which can sometimes be fatal, particularly in elderly patients. Other gastrointestinal side effects that have been reported include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, flatulence, constipation, indigestion, abdominal pain, black stools (melaena), blood in vomit (haematemesis), ulcerative stomatitis, and worsening of colitis and Crohn’s disease. Less frequently, inflammation of the stomach lining (gastritis) has been observed. Medications like ibuprofen may also be associated with a small increased risk of heart attack (myocardial infarction) or stroke. Other related side effects include water retention (edema), high blood pressure, and heart failure. Ibuprofen, especially when taken at higher than recommended doses or for extended periods, can cause kidney damage, affecting the body's ability to remove acids properly from the blood (renal tubular acidosis). This can lead to very low levels of potassium in the blood, a serious condition that requires immediate treatment. Symptoms may include muscle weakness and light-headedness. The side effects listed below cover those known to occur with ibuprofen, including those seen in high-dose, long-term therapy in rheumatism patients. The frequencies mentioned relate to short-term use of daily doses up to 1,200 mg for oral forms and up to 1,800 mg for suppositories.

Stop Using Ibuprofen and Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Notice:

  • Reddish, non-elevated, target-like or circular patches on the trunk, often with central blisters, skin peeling, and ulcers of the mouth, throat, nose, genitals, and eyes. These serious skin rashes can be preceded by fever and flu-like symptoms (exfoliative dermatitis, erythema multiforme, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis).
  • Widespread rash, high fever, and enlarged lymph nodes (DRESS syndrome).
  • A red, scaly widespread rash with bumps under the skin and blisters, usually appearing at the start of treatment (acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis).

Side Effects by Frequency

Very Common (may affect more than 1 in 10 people)

  • Gastrointestinal disturbances such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, wind, and constipation.

Common (may affect up to 1 in 10 people)

  • Heartburn, abdominal pain, indigestion.

Uncommon (may affect up to 1 in 100 people)

  • Visual disturbances.
  • Hypersensitivity reactions such as hives, itching, purpura, skin rash, and asthma attacks (sometimes with low blood pressure).
  • Inflammation of the stomach lining.
  • Runny nose.
  • Digestive tract ulcer with or without perforation.
  • Bowel inflammation, worsening of colitis and Crohn’s disease, and complications of diverticulitis, such as perforation or fistula.
  • Microscopic bleeding in the intestine, potentially leading to anemia.
  • Mouth ulcers and inflammation (ulcerative stomatitis).
  • Difficulty breathing (bronchospasm).
  • Headache, drowsiness, dizziness, vertigo, fatigue, agitation, insomnia, and irritability.

Rare (may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people)

  • Depression, confusion, hallucinations.
  • Vision loss.
  • Lupus erythematosus syndrome.
  • Elevated blood urea nitrogen, serum transaminases, and alkaline phosphatase levels.
  • Decreased hemoglobin and hematocrit values, inhibition of platelet aggregation, and prolonged bleeding time.
  • Decreased serum calcium and increased serum uric acid levels.
  • Kidney tissue damage.

Very Rare (may affect up to 1 in 10,000 people)

  • Swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, causing difficulty in breathing (angioedema), rapid heartbeat, severe drop in blood pressure, or life-threatening shock.
  • Sudden allergic reaction with shortness of breath, wheezing, and drop in blood pressure.
  • Severe rash with blisters, especially on the legs, arms, hands, and feet, which can involve the face and lips (erythema multiforme, Stevens-Johnson syndrome). In severe cases, the blisters may become larger and spread, causing skin to slough off (Lyell’s syndrome). Severe infection with tissue destruction (necrotizing fasciitis) may occur.
  • Sudden fluid accumulation in the lungs, causing difficulty in breathing, high blood pressure, water retention, and weight gain.
  • Unpleasant awareness of heartbeat, heart failure, or heart attack.
  • Blood cell formation disorders (anemia, leucopenia, thrombocytopenia, pancytopenia, agranulocytosis, neutropenia), with symptoms such as fever, sore throat, mouth ulcers, flu-like symptoms, severe fatigue, nasal and skin bleeding.
  • Ringing or buzzing in the ears.
  • Inflammation of the esophagus or pancreas.
  • Narrowing of the bowel.
  • Acute liver inflammation, yellowing of the skin or eyes, liver dysfunction, and liver failure.
  • Hair loss.
  • Inflammation of the brain membrane without bacterial infection (aseptic meningitis).

Not Known (frequency cannot be estimated from available data)

  • Tingling in the hands and feet.
  • Anxiety.
  • Impaired hearing.
  • General feeling of being unwell.
  • Inflammation of the optic nerve, potentially causing vision problems.
  • A severe skin reaction known as DRESS syndrome, with symptoms such as skin rash, fever, swelling of lymph nodes, and an increase in white blood cells (eosinophilia).
  • A red, scaly widespread rash with bumps under the skin and blisters, mainly localized on skin folds, trunk, and upper extremities, accompanied by fever at the start of treatment (acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis). If these symptoms develop, stop using ibuprofen and seek medical attention immediately (see also section 2).

Additional Precautions

Ibuprofen may reduce the number of white blood cells, which can decrease your resistance to infection. If you experience an infection with symptoms such as fever, worsening general condition, or fever with local symptoms like sore throat, mouth ulcers, or urinary issues, contact your doctor immediately. A blood test may be required to check for a reduction in white blood cells (agranulocytosis). Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking. Chest pain could be a sign of a serious allergic reaction known as Kounis syndrome.

Reporting Side Effects

If you experience any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any side effects not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the national reporting system listed in the Yellow Card Scheme. Visit the MHRA Yellow Card website or search for "MHRA Yellow Card" in the Google Play or Apple App Store. By reporting side effects, you can help provide more information on the safety of this medication.

Does Ibuprofen interact with other medicines?

nform your doctor or pharmacist if you are currently taking, have recently taken, or might take any other medications. Ibuprofen can interact with various other drugs, either affecting how ibuprofen works or being affected by it. For example:
  • Other NSAIDs, including COX-2 inhibitors, may increase the risk of gastrointestinal ulcers and bleeding.
  • Anticoagulants (blood thinners) such as warfarin or heparin, as ibuprofen may enhance their effects.
  • Platelet aggregation inhibitors like ticlopidine and clopidogrel (used to prevent blood clots).
  • Methotrexate (used for cancer and autoimmune diseases), as ibuprofen may enhance its effects.
  • Digoxin (used to treat heart conditions), as ibuprofen may enhance its effects.
  • Phenytoin (used to prevent epileptic seizures), as ibuprofen may enhance its effects.
  • Lithium (used to treat depression and mania), as ibuprofen may enhance its effects.
  • Diuretics (water tablets), as ibuprofen may reduce their effectiveness.
  • Potassium-sparing diuretics, as this combination may lead to hyperkalemia (high potassium levels).
  • Medicines that lower high blood pressure, such as ACE inhibitors (e.g., captopril), beta-blockers (e.g., atenolol), and angiotensin-II receptor antagonists (e.g., losartan).
  • Cholestyramine (used to treat high cholesterol).
  • Aminoglycosides (antibiotics), as NSAIDs may decrease their excretion.
  • SSRIs (antidepressants) such as paroxetine, sertraline, and citalopram, as they may increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.
  • Ciclosporine and tacrolimus (used for immunosuppression after organ transplant), as they may increase the risk of kidney damage.
  • Zidovudine or ritonavir (used to treat HIV).
  • Mifepristone, as NSAIDs can reduce its effectiveness.
  • Probenecid or sulfinpyrazone (used to treat gout), as ibuprofen excretion may be delayed.
  • Quinolone antibiotics, as the risk of convulsions (seizures) may increase.
  • Sulfonylureas (used to treat type 2 diabetes), as ibuprofen may affect blood sugar levels.
  • Glucocorticoids (used to reduce inflammation), as they may increase the risk of gastrointestinal ulcers or bleeding.
  • Bisphosphonates (used for osteoporosis, Paget’s disease, and reducing high blood calcium levels).
  • Oxpentifylline (used to treat circulatory disorders in the arteries of the legs or arms).
  • Baclofen (a muscle relaxant), as ibuprofen may increase baclofen toxicity.
  • Ginkgo biloba herbal supplements, as they may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with ibuprofen.
  • Voriconazole and fluconazole (CYP2C9 inhibitors used for fungal infections), as they may increase the effect of ibuprofen. A reduction in the ibuprofen dose may be necessary, especially when using high doses with these drugs.
Other medications may also interact with ibuprofen, so it's essential to consult your doctor or pharmacist before using ibuprofen alongside any other medications.

Ibuprofen FAQs

What is Ibuprofen?

Ibuprofen 400mg tablets are used to relieve mild to moderate pain and reduce associated inflammation. They are suitable for children and adults over the age of 12. Ibuprofen is also effective in reducing fever, a common symptom of colds and flu.

What is Ibuprofen used for?

Ibuprofen tablets are commonly used to alleviate:
  • Headaches and migraines
  • Back pain
  • Arthritic pain
  • Toothache
  • Fever
  • Symptoms of the common cold and flu
  • Period pain
  • Muscle and joint pain

What does Ibuprofen do?

Ibuprofen is a Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID). It works by blocking the production of prostaglandins, chemicals in the body that cause pain and inflammation when you’re injured.

How long does Ibuprofen take to work?

You should begin to feel relief from Ibuprofen within 20 to 30 minutes. The effects usually last for 4-6 hours.

How long can you take Ibuprofen?

Ibuprofen should not be taken continuously for more than 10 days. If your pain persists beyond this, consult a pharmacist or doctor for further advice.

Can you take Ibuprofen with Paracetamol?

Yes, Ibuprofen and paracetamol can be taken together as they target pain differently. Alternating doses throughout the day can effectively manage mild to moderate pain.

Ibuprofen and Codeine

You can take Ibuprofen with codeine, as they work differently to relieve pain. Medications combining both, like Nurofen Plus, are available without a prescription. However, do not use medicines containing codeine for more than 3 days due to the risk of addiction. Consult a doctor if pain persists.

Naproxen, Aspirin, and Ibuprofen

Naproxen, Aspirin, and Ibuprofen are all NSAIDs. You should not take more than one NSAID simultaneously unless advised by a doctor. Avoid taking Naproxen or Aspirin with Ibuprofen.

Is Ibuprofen safe?

When used as directed, Ibuprofen is generally safe. However, like any medication, it can cause side effects, and some people may be allergic to it or its ingredients.

Coronavirus and Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen is recommended for relieving symptoms of COVID-19, such as fever, muscle aches, headaches, and sore throat. There is no strong evidence linking Ibuprofen to worsening COVID-19 symptoms.

Ibuprofen Directions

Always read the Patient Information Leaflet before taking Ibuprofen. It should be taken orally with food or milk to prevent stomach irritation. Ibuprofen 400mg tablets are suitable for those over 12 years old.

Ibuprofen Dose - How Much to Take?

For children and adults over 12 years old: Take one 400mg tablet up to 3 times a day. Do not exceed 3 tablets in 24 hours, with at least 4 hours between doses.

Ibuprofen Dose for Children

Children under 12 should take smaller doses, either 200mg tablets or liquid suspension. Do not cut or chew the 400mg tablets.

Ibuprofen Overdose

Taking more than the recommended dose of Ibuprofen can be harmful. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical help immediately, even if you feel fine. Symptoms of overdose include stomach pain, nausea, drowsiness, ringing in the ears, difficulty breathing, and irregular heart rate.

Ibuprofen Side Effects

Like all medications, Ibuprofen can cause side effects. Common side effects include headaches, nausea, vomiting, indigestion, constipation, diarrhea, skin rashes, and itching (hives). Most side effects subside after stopping the medication. If you experience severe side effects or an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention.

Ibuprofen Warnings

Read all warnings and precautions in the Patient Information Leaflet before taking Ibuprofen. Do not take Ibuprofen if you have had a stomach ulcer, liver, kidney, or heart problems. Consult a doctor if you have asthma, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, gastrointestinal disorders, or are taking other medications.

Ibuprofen on an Empty Stomach

Avoid taking Ibuprofen on an empty stomach as it may cause irritation. Always take it with a snack or meal.

Ibuprofen and Pregnancy

Ibuprofen is not recommended during pregnancy. Consult a healthcare professional for advice on managing pain during this time. If breastfeeding, Ibuprofen can be taken at the recommended dose.

Ibuprofen and Driving

Ibuprofen may cause drowsiness in some people. Ensure you know how it affects you before driving or operating machinery.

Ibuprofen and Alcohol

Drinking alcohol while taking Ibuprofen may increase the risk of stomach irritation. However, moderate alcohol consumption is generally safe while taking Ibuprofen.

Download patient leaflet

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.10952.pdf

Checked By
Dr Sarah Thornton
MbChB, Coaching Academy diploma with distinction

GP, Medical coach


Written By
Shazlee Ahsan
BSc Pharmacy, Independent Prescriber, PgDip Endocrinology, MSc Endocrinology, PgDip Infectious Diseases

Superintendant Pharmacist, Independent Prescriber


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