Advice on Use

Can I take Nurofen if I’m asthmatic?

If you've ever had an allergic reaction such as a rash or swelling of your tongue, throat or lips or difficulty breathing after taking NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs), like ibuprofen or aspirin, please don't take Nurofen. If you haven't taken NSAIDs before, please speak to your doctor before using Nurofen. There is a very small minority of people who may suffer worsening of their asthma.

Can I take Nurofen if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?

There is no evidence to show that taking Nurofen is safe for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. So we would advise you to avoid taking it if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

I’m allergic to aspirin, can I take Nurofen?

Please don’t take Nurofen if you’ve ever had an allergic reaction (e.g. rash, swelling of your tongue, throat or lips or difficulty breathing) to aspirin.

Can I take Nurofen if I’ve a ulcer?

You shouldn’t take Nurofen if you have had stomach bleeding (or perforation of the stomach or bowel).

What types of pain can I take Nurofen for, without seeing my doctor?

The types of pain include headaches, cold and flu pains, dental pain, period pain, back pain, muscular and rheumatic pain, and migraines.

Can I take Nurofen if I’m taking prescribed medicine(s)?

Always consult your pharmacist or your doctor before taking Nurofen with other medicines.

When should I take a pain-reliever?

The best time is as soon as you feel pain start.

Do I have to eat before/when I take Nurofen?

Take Nurofen according to the directions on the label, Nurofen can be taken on an empty stomach with fluid or after food. Taking it with food will delay its onset of action.

Who can tell me what type of pain-reliever I should take for my pain?

Your local pharmacist will help you. However, if you’re in severe pain, your pain gets worse, or your pain goes on for longer than three days, please speak to your doctor.

Do any Nurofen products contain any sympathomimetics like phenylephrine or pseudoephedrine as active ingredients?

Phenylephrine and pseudoephedrine are decongestants primarily used in cold and flu remedies. The Nurofen range contains Nurofen Cold & Flu tablets available from the pharmacist at your pharmacy.

There have been some questions over the use of cold and flu remedies for small children recently? How does this affect Nurofen for Children?

Nurofen for Children products are formulated to relieve pain and fever and have not been included in the recent discussions relating to children's cold and flu medicines.

Nurofen safety at-a-glance

• Always read the label
• Never take more than the recommended dose
• Never take more than one medicine containing NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs)
• Always check with your doctor or pharmacist if you’re unsure about taking Nurofen.

All information presented on these web pages is not meant to diagnose or prescribe.  In all health matters please contact your doctor.

Always read the label. Use only as directed. Incorrect use could be harmful. If symptoms persist, see your healthcare professional. Do not give to babies under 3 months old. Seek medical advice for babies less than 12 months of age.