What is Nurofen?
Nurofen is a popular branded painkiller that contains the active ingredient ibuprofen.
What is Nurofen used for?
Nurofen can help to alleviate a broad range of aches and pains. These include muscle aches, joint pain and headaches. In addition, Nurofen can also help to reduce fever in people who have an infection or virus.
How does Nurofen work?
Ibuprofen, the active ingredient in Nurofen, is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by reducing the production of hormones that cause pain and swelling in the body.
Ibuprofen is widely used to relieve common pains and aches, and it also decreases fever.
How long does it take Nurofen to work?
The treatment should begin to work 20-30 minutes after it is taken.
How should I take Nurofen?
Adults can take up to two tablets, three times a day, spread at least four hours apart.
Who can’t take Nurofen?
Ibuprofen, Nurofen’s active ingredient, shouldn’t be taken if you’ve had symptoms of an allergic reaction to it in the past.
In addition, you must contact your GP before using ibuprofen if you have:
- Had a stomach ulcer, perforation, or bleeding in the stomach
- Had health problems that make you more likely to bleed
- Liver problems, such as liver failure, fibrosis or cirrhosis
- Heart disease or severe heart failure
- Kidney failure
- Crohn’s disease
- Ulcerative colitis
- Chickenpox or shingles
People aged 65 and over should also consult their doctor before using ibuprofen. They will usually prescribe additional treatment to protect the stomach against ulcers in these cases.
What are the side effects of Nurofen?
Many people won’t experience any side effects when taking Nurofen. People who do, however, commonly experience one or more of the following:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Wind
- Indigestion
In some instances, ibuprofen can cause serious side effects. Seek immediate medical attention if you have:
- Black stools or blood in your vomit - these are signs of a bleed in your stomach
- Ankle swelling, bloody urine or the inability to pass urine - these are signs of a kidney problem
- Severe chest or stomach pain - these are signs of a hold in the stomach or gut
- Breathlessness or asthma symptoms that get worse
How should I store Nurofen?
Nurofen should be stored in a dry, cool environment that does not exceed 25°C.