Ibuprofen Fact Card
Ibuprofen is a painkiller that is widely available as an over the counter medicine.
| Brands | Nurofen |
| Used For | Mild to moderate pain and to control fever |
| Doseage | Usual adult dosage is 200-400mg as required to a maximum of three times a day (or total dose 1200mg) |
| Side Effects | Nausea, indigestion , diarrhoea |
| Warnings | Please do not take if you have a history of any stomach problems or ulceration or any kidney issues. |
| Pregnancy | Ibuprofen is not considered safe to take in pregnancy |
Ibuprofen is a type of painkiller called a non steroidal anti inflammatory drug (NSAIDs). It is widely available in both pharmacies and supermarkets.
What is Ibuprofen used to treat?
Ibuprofen is suitable for mild to moderate pain e.g. headaches, period pain
It is also used to bring down a fever e.g if somebody has flu-like symptoms
It is useful as a pain killer and anti inflammatory in muscle and joint pains e.g arthritis
How does Ibuprofen work?
Ibuprofen works by inhibiting an enzyme which blocks the production of prostaglandins in the body. Prostaglandins cause pain, swelling and inflammation in the body.
How do I take Ibuprofen?
The usual dose of ibuprofen for adults is 200mg- 400mg when required for pain. Doses should be at least 4-6 hours apart. Do not exceed 1200mg unless advised by your doctor.
Ibuprofen should be taken with food.
Ibuprofen comes in 200mg and 400mg tablets so be sure to check the dosage.
Children will need a lower dosage. Please check the information on the packing or leaflet that came with the medicine.
Side effects of Ibuprofen
Common: Nausea and vomiting
Indigestion
Diarrhoea
Less common:
Stomach ulceration
Kidney problems
Blood in stool or vomit
Allergy reactions
Worsening of asthma
Things to avoid
Ibuprofen can interact/cause harm when taken with other medications e.g. warfarin/blood thinners, antidepressants, steroid tablets.
If you are taking other medications please ask your doctor prior to taking ibuprofen.
Taking ibuprofen regularly for long periods of time should be avoided. If you find yourself , taking it very frequently , please discuss this with your doctor.
It is not recommended that ibuprofen is given to anybody suffering from chicken pox or shingles.
Ibuprofen and alcohol
It is not unsafe to drink alcohol and ibuprofen. However, it should be noted that both ibuprofen and alcohol can irritate the stomach. It is therefore advisable to keep alcohol consumption low when taking ibuprofen.
Can I take Ibuprofen when pregnant?
Ibuprofen is best avoided in pregnancy . It can cause defects affecting the baby's heart or blood vessels.
Paracetamol is a safe alternative in pregnancy.
Ibuprofen and breastfeeding
Evidence is unclear so ibuprofen is best avoided when breastfeeding.
Our doctors are available now and can issue same day prescriptions for all standard medications. To see a GP regarding a prescription for ibuprofen or for any other reason book an appointment now and start feeling better right away.