Description
Pain Relief for Moderate Pain When Standard Painkillers Are Not Enough
CONTAINS OPIOID – Can cause Addiction. Use For NO MORE THAN 3 DAYS
Nurofen Plus Tablets Overview
Nurofen Plus Tablets are a combination pain relief medicine used for the short-term treatment of moderate pain when standard analgesics alone are insufficient. They contain ibuprofen, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), and codeine phosphate, an opioid analgesic that enhances pain relief.
In the UK, Nurofen Plus is an over-the-counter medicine supplied in limited quantities for short-term use only. It is intended for adults who require additional pain control beyond simple painkillers.
Understanding Moderate Pain
When pain needs stronger relief
Moderate pain is pain that interferes with daily activities or sleep and is not adequately relieved by paracetamol or ibuprofen alone. Examples include severe headache, dental pain, back pain, and pain following minor injury.
Combination products such as Nurofen Plus are designed for short-term escalation, not ongoing pain management.
Why combination painkillers are used cautiously
Medicines containing codeine are effective for pain but carry risks if used incorrectly. For this reason, their use is restricted to short durations and specific situations where other options have failed.
What Are Nurofen Plus Tablets?
Nurofen Plus Tablets contain:
- Ibuprofen 200 mg, which reduces pain, inflammation, and swelling
- Codeine phosphate 12.8 mg, which acts centrally to reduce pain perception
Together, these ingredients provide enhanced analgesia compared with ibuprofen alone.
Nurofen Plus is intended for occasional use, typically for up to 3 days.
How Do Nurofen Plus Tablets Work?
Ibuprofen for pain and inflammation
Ibuprofen works by inhibiting cyclo-oxygenase (COX) enzymes, reducing the production of prostaglandins that cause pain, inflammation, and swelling. This makes it particularly useful for inflammatory pain.
Codeine for central pain relief
Codeine is converted in the body to morphine, which acts on opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord. This reduces the perception of pain and enhances the overall analgesic effect.
Because of this mechanism, codeine can cause drowsiness and carries a risk of dependence if misused.
What Nurofen Plus Treats — and What It Does Not
What it helps with
Nurofen Plus Tablets may help relieve:
- moderate headache or migraine
- dental pain
- back pain
- muscular pain and strains
- period pain (dysmenorrhoea)
- pain following minor injury
What it does not treat
Nurofen Plus does not:
- treat chronic or long-term pain
- address the underlying cause of persistent pain
- replace medical assessment for severe pain
If pain continues beyond a few days, medical advice is required.
Who Are Nurofen Plus Tablets For?
Nurofen Plus may be suitable for:
- adults aged 18 years and over
- people with moderate pain not relieved by simple painkillers
- short-term use where stronger pain relief is required
It should only be used when other options have not provided adequate relief.
Who Should Avoid Nurofen Plus Tablets
Nurofen Plus is not suitable if:
- you are under 18 years of age
- you are allergic to ibuprofen, codeine, or other NSAIDs
- you have stomach ulcers or a history of gastrointestinal bleeding
- you have severe heart, kidney, or liver disease
- you have breathing problems or opioid sensitivity
- you are pregnant or breastfeeding
A pharmacist should always assess suitability before supply.
How to Take Nurofen Plus Tablets
Dosage
- Take 1 to 2 tablets, up to three times daily if needed
- Leave at least 4 hours between doses
- Do not take more than 6 tablets in 24 hours
Use for a maximum of 3 days only.
Important usage advice
- Take with food or milk to reduce stomach irritation
- Do not take with alcohol
- Do not take alongside other codeine-containing products
- Stop use as soon as pain improves
Safety, Warnings and Side Effects
Common side effects
Some people may experience:
- drowsiness or dizziness
- nausea or vomiting
- constipation
- stomach discomfort
Important safety considerations
- Codeine can cause dependence if used for longer than recommended
- NSAIDs may increase the risk of stomach bleeding or cardiovascular events
- Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration
When to Seek Medical Advice
Speak to a GP or pharmacist if:
- pain lasts longer than 3 days
- pain worsens or changes
- you need pain relief repeatedly
- you experience side effects such as black stools, shortness of breath, or severe drowsiness
Urgent advice is required if overdose is suspected.
Use in Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Nurofen Plus Tablets are not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to risks associated with both ibuprofen and codeine.
How Nurofen Plus Compares to Other Pain Relief
Nurofen Plus vs ibuprofen alone
Ibuprofen alone may be sufficient for mild to moderate pain. Nurofen Plus is intended only when this is not effective.
Nurofen Plus vs paracetamol-codeine combinations
Different combination products vary in strength and risk profile. A pharmacist can help determine the most appropriate option.
Supporting Safe Pain Management
Alongside medication, pain management may include:
- rest and activity modification
- heat or cold therapy
- gentle stretching
- addressing underlying causes where possible
Combination painkillers should always be part of a short-term plan, not a long-term solution.
Nurofen Plus Tablets Summary
Nurofen Plus Tablets provide short-term relief of moderate pain when standard painkillers are not enough. By combining ibuprofen with codeine, they offer enhanced analgesia but must be used carefully and for a limited duration.
Persistent or severe pain should always be assessed by a healthcare professional.
