Nurofen — what it does and when to use it

Nurofen is a brand name for ibuprofen, a common over-the-counter painkiller many people reach for when they have a headache, muscle ache, fever, or period pain. It reduces inflammation and eases pain by blocking chemicals your body makes during injury or illness. That’s why it can help pain that comes with swelling, like sprains or sore throats.

People like Nurofen because it works fast for short-term pain and is easy to buy. Still, knowing how to use it safely matters. The right choice depends on your age, other medicines you take, and any health conditions you have.

How people usually use Nurofen

Typical over-the-counter dosing for adults is 200–400 mg every 4–6 hours as needed. Many labels warn not to take more than the recommended daily amount and to follow the package instructions. For children, doses are weight-based and given with specific children’s formulations. Always check the label or ask a pharmacist if you aren’t sure.

Common reasons people take Nurofen:

• Headaches and migraines (short-term relief)
• Muscle strains and sprains
• Tooth pain after dental work
• Period pain
• Fever reduction

Safety tips, common issues, and alternatives

Ibuprofen is safe for many people when used as directed, but it can cause side effects. The most common problems are stomach upset, indigestion, and, rarely, stomach bleeding. Long-term or high-dose use raises the risk of heart and kidney issues, so avoid prolonged daily use unless a doctor recommends it.

Who should be cautious or avoid Nurofen:

• If you have a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding
• If you have heart disease or high blood pressure
• If you have kidney problems or are dehydrated
• During the last trimester of pregnancy (ask your doctor)
• If you take blood thinners or some blood pressure medicines — talk to your doctor first

If Nurofen isn’t a good fit, simple alternatives include paracetamol (acetaminophen) for pain and fever, or naproxen for longer-lasting NSAID effect. Topical pain gels can work for joint or muscle pain with fewer stomach effects. For chronic pain, check with a healthcare professional to find a safer plan.

Shopping tip: generic ibuprofen tablets give the same active ingredient at a lower cost. If you buy medicines online, use reputable pharmacies, check reviews, and confirm product labels. Affordable options often work just as well as branded Nurofen.

Got a specific pain or medication question? A quick chat with a pharmacist can save time and avoid mistakes. If pain is severe, sudden, or gets worse, seek medical care right away.