Description
Overview
How do Nurofen Tablets relieve pain and inflammation? Nurofen Tablets contain the active ingredient ibuprofen which belongs to a group of medicines known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs. Nurofen Tablets work by interacting with the body’s chemical response to injury or illness. When tissues are damaged the body releases enzymes called cyclooxygenase enzymes. These enzymes are responsible for the production of prostaglandins which are lipid compounds that act as messengers to signal pain to the brain and trigger inflammation, swelling and fever at the site of the problem. Nurofen Tablets inhibit the action of these cyclooxygenase enzymes. By blocking the production of prostaglandins Nurofen Tablets effectively reduce the sensitivity of nerve endings to pain and physically diminish the swelling and redness associated with inflammation.
What specific types of pain are Nurofen Tablets indicated for? Nurofen Tablets are clinically indicated for the relief of mild to moderate pain. Due to the anti-inflammatory properties of Nurofen Tablets they are particularly effective for treating conditions where tissue swelling is a primary cause of discomfort. This includes dental pain, neuralgia and rheumatic or muscular pain. Nurofen Tablets are also a recommended treatment for primary dysmenorrhoea or period pain as they directly target the prostaglandins in the womb lining that cause cramping. Furthermore Nurofen Tablets act as an antipyretic which means Nurofen Tablets can lower a high temperature or fever associated with colds and influenza.
Who Is It For
Who are Nurofen Tablets suitable for? Nurofen Tablets are suitable for adults and children aged 12 years and over. Nurofen Tablets are an ideal option for individuals seeking relief from everyday aches and pains such as tension headaches or backache. Nurofen Tablets are specifically beneficial for patients who require a medication that treats both the pain and the underlying inflammation. Nurofen Tablets are not suitable for children under 12 years of age.
Usage Instructions
How to take Nurofen Tablets correctly? Nurofen Tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water. Users should not chew or crush Nurofen Tablets as this can damage the coating and affect how the medication is released in the stomach.
Adults and children aged 12 years and over: The recommended dose is 1 or 2 Nurofen Tablets taken with water up to three times a day as required. Users must ensure they leave at least 4 hours between doses.
Why is taking Nurofen Tablets with food important? It is essential to take Nurofen Tablets with food or immediately after eating a meal. Ibuprofen can be irritating to the gastric mucosa which is the protective lining of the stomach. Taking Nurofen Tablets on an empty stomach significantly increases the risk of developing acid indigestion, gastric pain, nausea or in severe cases stomach ulcers. Food acts as a buffer that protects the stomach wall and ensures Nurofen Tablets are tolerated comfortably.
What are the dosage limits for Nurofen Tablets? Users must not take more than 6 Nurofen Tablets in any 24-hour period. This equates to a maximum daily dose of 1200mg of ibuprofen. Nurofen Tablets are intended for short-term use only. If symptoms persist for more than 3 days in adolescents or 10 days in adults the user should stop taking Nurofen Tablets and consult a doctor to investigate the underlying cause.
Warnings
When must Nurofen Tablets not be used? Nurofen Tablets must not be used by patients who have active peptic ulcers which are open sores on the stomach lining or a history of recurrent gastrointestinal bleeding or perforation. Nurofen Tablets are not suitable for individuals with severe heart failure, liver failure or kidney failure as NSAIDs can impair the blood flow to these organs. Nurofen Tablets must not be taken by anyone who has previously experienced a hypersensitivity reaction to aspirin or other NSAIDs which may have manifested as asthma attacks, nasal congestion known as rhinitis or itchy skin rashes known as urticaria.
Safety advice regarding pregnancy and Nurofen Tablets? Nurofen Tablets must not be taken during the last three months of pregnancy known as the third trimester. Using Nurofen Tablets during this period can cause serious heart and kidney problems for the unborn baby and may lead to prolonged bleeding for the mother during labour. During the first six months of pregnancy Nurofen Tablets should only be used if explicitly advised by a healthcare professional. Women attempting to conceive should be aware that NSAIDs like Nurofen Tablets may temporarily impair fertility by affecting ovulation although this is reversible upon stopping the medication.
Alternatives
Common alternatives to Nurofen Tablets? If Nurofen Tablets are not suitable due to stomach sensitivity or medical history common alternatives include:
Panadol Advance Tablets: Contains paracetamol which provides effective pain relief and fever reduction without irritating the stomach lining or affecting blood clotting mechanisms like Nurofen Tablets.
Nurofen Express Liquid Capsules: Contains ibuprofen in a liquid format that is absorbed into the bloodstream faster than standard Nurofen Tablets for quicker onset of action.
Voltarol 12 Hour Gel: A topical gel containing diclofenac which is applied directly to the skin to treat muscular pain and inflammation locally with minimal absorption into the rest of the body compared to Nurofen Tablets.
Co-codamol: A combination of paracetamol and codeine used for acute moderate pain that is not relieved by Nurofen Tablets alone although it carries a risk of drowsiness.
