Description
High-Strength Anti-Inflammatory Relief for Pain and Swelling
Cuprofen Maximum Strength Tablets Overview
Cuprofen Maximum Strength Tablets are a high-strength ibuprofen medicine used to relieve pain, inflammation and fever. They are commonly taken for conditions such as muscular aches, back pain, dental pain, period pain, joint pain and symptoms associated with colds and flu.
In the UK, Cuprofen Maximum Strength is an over-the-counter pharmacy medicine, providing a higher dose of ibuprofen per tablet for adults who require stronger pain relief.
Understanding Pain and Inflammation
Why inflammation causes pain
Inflammation is part of the body’s response to injury or illness. It involves the release of chemicals that increase blood flow and sensitise nerves, leading to pain, swelling and stiffness.
Reducing inflammation can therefore significantly improve comfort and mobility.
Why higher-strength NSAIDs are used
When lower-dose painkillers are not effective, higher-strength NSAIDs may provide improved relief by more effectively suppressing inflammatory processes.
What Are Cuprofen Maximum Strength Tablets?
Cuprofen contains ibuprofen, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) with analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic properties. The maximum-strength formulation is designed for adults who need stronger relief while still using a non-prescription medicine.
How Does Cuprofen Work?
Prostaglandin inhibition
Ibuprofen works by inhibiting cyclo-oxygenase (COX) enzymes, reducing the production of prostaglandins — substances that contribute to pain, inflammation and fever.
Onset and duration
Cuprofen typically begins working within 30–60 minutes, with effects lasting several hours depending on dose and individual response.
What Cuprofen Helps With — and What It Does Not
What it helps with
Cuprofen Maximum Strength Tablets are used to relieve:
- muscular aches and pains
- back pain
- dental pain
- period pain (dysmenorrhoea)
- joint pain and inflammation
- headache and migraine
- fever and cold- or flu-related aches
They are intended for short-term use at the lowest effective dose.
What it does not treat
Cuprofen does not:
- cure underlying medical conditions
- treat infections directly
- relieve pain caused by stomach ulcers
- replace medical assessment for persistent or severe pain
Who Are Cuprofen Tablets For?
Cuprofen Maximum Strength may be suitable for:
- adults requiring stronger pain relief
- people with inflammatory pain
- individuals who have not responded to lower-dose ibuprofen
A pharmacist can advise on suitability and dosing.
Who Should Avoid Cuprofen
Cuprofen should not be used if:
- you have a history of stomach ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding
- you are allergic to ibuprofen or other NSAIDs
- you have severe heart, kidney or liver disease
- you are in the last three months of pregnancy
Caution is advised in older adults and people with asthma or high blood pressure.
How to Take Cuprofen Maximum Strength Tablets
Take tablets with or after food to reduce stomach irritation. Swallow with water and space doses evenly throughout the day as directed on the packaging.
Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of use.
Safety, Warnings and Side Effects
Cuprofen is generally effective when used correctly. Possible side effects include indigestion, stomach discomfort or nausea. Long-term or high-dose use increases the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and cardiovascular effects.
Avoid combining with other NSAIDs unless advised.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Speak to a GP or pharmacist if:
- pain or fever persists
- symptoms worsen
- stomach pain, black stools or vomiting blood occurs
- you need pain relief for more than a few days
Medical review may be required.
Use in Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Cuprofen must not be used during the final trimester of pregnancy. Use earlier in pregnancy or during breastfeeding should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
How Cuprofen Compares to Other Painkillers
Cuprofen vs standard ibuprofen
Cuprofen provides a higher ibuprofen dose per tablet, which may offer improved relief for more intense pain.
Cuprofen vs paracetamol
Paracetamol relieves pain and fever but does not reduce inflammation. Cuprofen treats both pain and inflammation.
Cuprofen Maximum Strength Tablets Summary
Cuprofen Maximum Strength Tablets provide strong, effective relief from pain, inflammation and fever when lower-dose painkillers are not sufficient. When used correctly for short periods, they can help restore comfort and mobility.
Persistent or severe pain should always be assessed by a healthcare professional.
