Nurofen Plus

Nurofen Plus tablet are versatile pain relievers that directly target the source of inflammation and manage severe-moderate pain with great efficacy. It is used when other painkillers such as paracetamol, aspirin, or ibuprofen alone are unable to provide relief. 

What is Nurofen Plus?

Nurofen Plus tablets contain codeine and ibuprofen, reducing inflammation and pain. They are suitable for children and adults over the age of 12.

This medication is used for 3 days (short term) only, as prolonged use can cause dependency due to the presence of codeine. However, if your pain persists after 3 days, consult your doctor for a better evaluation. 

What is Nurofen Plus tablets used for?

Nurofen Plus 200mg tablets are used for short-term treatment, offering rapid relief from:

Swelling
Fever
Backache

Dental pain
Migraines
Headaches

Cold and flu symptoms
Nerve pain or neuralgia
Muscular pain (strains or sprains)

Period pain (dysmenorrhea)
Post-surgical pain

Arthritis
Rheumatic pain

Mode of action of Nurofen Plus: How does this medicine work?

Nurofen Plus 32 combines two active components: codeine and ibuprofen. It works in such a way that:

Ibuprofen: It is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces inflammation and alleviates fever and pain by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins.

Prostaglandins are chemicals that are part of your body’s inflammatory response and cause fever, pain, and inflammation at the site of infection or injury. By blocking these chemicals, this medication reduces swelling and pain sensation.

Codeine: It is an opioid analgesic that targets your central nervous system and mimics natural pain-reducing compounds called endorphins, blocking pain signals, altering pain perception, and offering additional pain relief. 

Together, these active ingredients target the source and sensation of pain, making Nurofen Plus effective for moderate-severe pain management.

However, you must use this medication with caution and according to your doctor’s instructions to avoid addiction or adverse effects.

How long does Nurofen Plus take to work?

Nurofen Plus targeted pain relief medication starts working within 30-60 minutes of taking it. It lasts for 4-6 hours, offering comfort for the long term.

However, the onset of relief varies from person to person, depending on the type and severity of pain. For best results, follow the dosage instructions, take your dose as directed by your doctor, and never exceed the stated dose. 

Is Nurofen Plus safe for long-term use?

This medication contains codeine and ibuprofen and is not recommended for long-term use. Prolonged use of Nurofen Plus for pain relief may cause dependency due to the presence of codeine or enhance the risk of harmful effects such as heart problems, gastrointestinal issues, or kidney problems. 

If you want pain relief medicine for the long term, consult your doctor for better advice and explore the safe alternative according to your health. 

Is Nurofen Plus available over the counter, or do I need a prescription?

In the UK, you can buy Nurofen Plus over-the-counter from a local pharmacy. However, in some countries, it requires a doctor's prescription due to the presence of codeine which can be habit-forming.

So, consult your doctor to understand the specific regulations in your area. 

Moreover, if you want to buy Nurofen Plus online, head over to Ashcroft Pharmacy. Simply fill out the online consultation form, and we will deliver the treatment straight to your door.  

How to take Nurofen Plus for pain relief?

You must take Nurofen Plus 32 according to your doctor’s directions and recommendations. Moreover, before taking it, consider the following things:

Before taking this medication, carefully read the patient's leaflet.

• Swallow the whole tablet with a glass of water.
• Do not take more or less than the prescribed dose. 
• Do not crush or chew the tablet. 
• Give a gap of 4 hours between your doses.
• Do not take more than 6 tablets a day. 
• You can take this medication with or after a light meal to avoid stomach irritation.

Avoid taking it for more than 3 days. After 3 days, if symptoms persist, consult your healthcare professional.

Do NOT take this medication with other ibuprofen or codeine-containing medicines, as it will result in an overdose. 
If you are still unsure, check the patient leaflet. 

Can you take Nurofen with paracetamol?

You can take Nurofen Plus tablets with paracetamol at the same time for extra pain relief. This is because both medications contain different active ingredients and work in complementary ways.

Nurofen Plus combines codeine with ibuprofen while paracetamol (acetaminophen) is a separate painkiller and fever reducer.

When you take them together, these medicines enhance pain relief effects.

However, you must consult your doctor and follow the recommended dosage for each medication to avoid serious effects.

Nurofen Plus and food

Taking Nurofen Plus on an empty stomach can cause stomach pain, constipation, or indigestion. So, you must take this medication with food or a glass of milk to prevent stomach irritation.  

Nurofen Plus and alcohol

Nurofen Plus tablets may interact with alcohol and can cause enhanced dizziness, drowsiness, or sleepiness or may enhance the risk of more severe side effects. Therefore, it is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking this fast-acting pain reliever. 

Nurofen Plus and pregnancy & breastfeeding

During pregnancy, Nurofen Plus is not recommended due to the presence of codeine and ibuprofen. If used during the 3rd trimester, Ibuprofen can enhance the risk of complications-

such as, kidney problems in your unborn baby, reduced amniotic fluid, delayed labor, or premature closure of the baby’s ductus arteriosus at the time of delivery.

On the other hand, codeine can cause withdrawal symptoms or respiratory depression in the newborn.

So, if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, avoid taking Nurofen Plus and consult your doctor for a better alternative. 

Moreover, if you are breastfeeding, do not take Nurofen Plus as codeine and morphine may pass into breast milk and harm your newborn. 

What is the difference between Nurofen and Nurofen Plus?

Nurofen and Nurofen Plus are effective painkillers; the difference lies in their active ingredients, such as:

• Nurofen contains only ibuprofen as an active component while Nurofen Plus contains ibuprofen and codeine.
  
  
• Nurofen belongs to NSAID, while Nurofen Plus combines NSAID with opioids.
  
  
• Nurofen is best for mild-moderate pain relief while Nurofen Plus manages moderate-severe pain.
  
  
• Nurofen Plus carries the risk of addiction due to the presence of codeine, while Nurofen tablets for pain relief do not cause dependency. 
  
  
• If you are unsure which medicine is safe for you, consult your doctor to figure out the right option and recommended dosage for you. 

You can purchase Nurofen tablets online via Ashcroft Pharmacy by following a few easy steps.

Nurofen Plus and Solpadeine Max

Nurofen Plus and Solpadeine Max are effective painkillers; they differ in several ways:

Nurofen Plus contains 200 mg of ibuprofen and 12.8 mg of codeine phosphate while Solpadeine Max contains 500 mg of paracetamol, 12.8 mg of codeine phosphate, and 30 mg of caffeine.

Nurofen Plus is a combination of NSAID and opioid, while Solpadeine Max is a combination of NSAID, opioid, and stimulant. 

Nurofen Plus treats pain associated with inflammation such as injury or arthritis while Solpadeine Max is best for non-inflammatory pain relief such as headaches, migraines, for period pain.

The selection between these painkillers depends on your type and severity of pain or current health. So, consult your doctor to determine the right fit for you. 

How to store Nurofen Plus?

You must store Nurofen Plus tablets below 25 degrees Celsius in their original pack. Also:

• Keep your medicine away from the sight and reach of children.
  
  
• Store it away from the moisture, direct sunlight, and heat.
  
  
• Do not store it in the bathroom.
• Dispose of the medicine once its expiry date has passed.
• Dispose of Nurofen Plus via the medicine take-back program to protect the environment, pets, and other people.
• Do not flush the medication down the toilet.

Are Nurofen Plus reviews positive?

Nurofen Plus’ reviews are positive due to its enhanced effectiveness in managing inflammation and moderate-severe pain.

Some users reported that it offers fast and powerful relief from mild arthritis and migraines within 30 minutes when other painkillers are insufficient. A few people claimed they got mild effects such as drowsiness or constipation. 

Overall, this medication is well-regarded and recommended by users. Ensure to use it responsibly and as directed to avoid adverse effects.

https://www.medino.com/article/nurofen-plus-reviews

Nurofen Plus price in the UK

The cost of Nurofen Plus tablets varies depending on the retailer, country, and packaging size. Normally it ranges from £8-£12 in the UK.

The price can also fluctuate based on online discounts, promotions, or local market factors. If you are unsure about its price, consult your doctor for a cost-saving option.

Are there any alternatives to Nurofen Plus?

If Nurofen Plus tablets do not suit you, you can opt for these alternatives such as:

Alternatives with codeine + Ibuprofen

• 
  Brands include Brufen Plus or Cuprofen Plus
• Include the same active ingredients as Nurofen Plus and offer the same pain relief.

Alternatives with Codeine + Paracetamol

• Brands include Panadeine or Co-codamol
• Best for general pain but lacks anti-inflammatory properties.

Alternatives with Codeine + Paracetamol + Caffeine

• Brands include Solpadeine Max or Migraleve
• Offer enhanced pain relief and alertness

Alternatives without Codeine

These include NSAIDs that offer stronger pain relief, such as:

• Naproxen Tablets (250mg & 500mg)
  
• Ibuprofen
• Diclofenac
• Aspirin 

Before choosing any alternative, consult your healthcare professional to determine the safe and right option according to your needs. 

Nurofen Plus next-day delivery

At the Ashcroft Pharmacy, we strive for services that are accessible and entirely focused on our customers. Buy Nurofen Plus online from us for multiple delivery options, including next-day delivery that is designed to work around you. 

Just fill out our online consultation form, and our pharmacists will evaluate whether this medication is safe for you. Once approved, we will deliver your medication to your doorstep the next day. 

Sources

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.5627.pdf 

https://www.nps.org.au/assets/medicines/150020e1-2de1-479c-8832-a53300fec67b.pdf

Author

Warning and precautions of Nurofen Plus

Nurofen Plus is an efficacious medicine, but it is not safe for everyone. You should not take Nurofen Plus if you:

• Have stomach ulcer, bleeding, or perforation
  
  
• Are allergic to ibuprofen, codeine, or any other ingredient present in this medicine
  
  
• Have asthma, high cholesterol, diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke, heart, liver, kidney, or bowel problems.
  
  
• Are dehydrated
  
  
• Have high cholesterol 
  
  
• Are a smoker
• Have breathing difficulties 
  
  
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
  
  
• Have chronic constipation
  
  
• Are taking any other NSAID painkillers or aspirin
  
  
• Have a gallbladder removal or thyroid disorder
  
  
• Have lupus or gastrointestinal disease 
• Have head injury or raised intracranial pressure 
  
  
• Are under 12 years old
• Have myasthenia gravis (a condition that causes muscle weakness)

Other warnings

It should not be used in children and adolescents (0-18 years of age) after removal of their adenoids or tonsils due to obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome.

This medication is not suitable for children with breathing problems as the signs of morphine toxicity may be worse in these children.

Codeine is transformed into morphine via liver enzymes, offering pain relief. Some people have variations of these enzymes, resulting in under/over-production of morphine, causing side effects (constipation, slow breathing, confusion, or sleepiness) and not offering enough pain relief. If you notice any of these effects, consult your doctor.

Nurofen Plus and other medicines

Nurofen Plus 32 can interact with various prescription medicines, OTC drugs, supplements, minerals, vitamins, or herbal products, causing harmful effects. So, before taking this painkiller, consult your doctor if you are taking any of these drugs such as:

• Blood thinners such as ticlopidine, warfarin, 
  
  
• Other painkillers such as Naproxen or Aspirin
  
  
• Any other codeine or ibuprofen-containing medications
  
  
• Medicines that reduce high blood pressure (beta-blockers such as atenolol, ACE-inhibitors such as captopril, or angiotensin-II receptor antagonists such as losartan)
  
  
• Moclobemide or Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) (for depression)
  
  
• Hydroxyzine (an anti-anxiety medicine)
  
  
• Loperamide and kaolin (to treat diarrhea)
  
  
• Quinidine or Mexiletine (to treat abnormal heart rhythms)
  
  
• Metoclopramide or domperidone (anti-sickness medicines)
  
  
• Cimetidine (to treat stomach ulcers)
  
  
• Naloxone

Nurofen Plus and driving 

Nurofen Plus may cause sleepiness, drowsiness, or dizziness. So, if you feel any of these effects, do not drive or operate heavy machinery or tools to avoid accidents.

If you are unsure, consult your doctor to determine whether it is safe for you to drive while taking this medication.

Nurofen Plus withdrawal 

Nurofen Plus medication for pain relief contains codeine, an opioid analgesic. If you take it for an extended period or higher than the prescribed dose, it will cause dependency, and when you stop taking it, you may get these withdrawal symptoms such as:

• Restlessness
  
  
• Sweating
  
  
• Anxiety
  
  
• Nausea
  
  
• Diarrhea
  
  
• Stomach cramps
  
  
• Flu-like symptoms
  
  
• Insomnia
  
  
• Intense cravings
  
  
• Irritability 
  
  
• Feeling achy 
  
  
• Increased heartbeat 

To manage withdrawal effects, you should not stop taking this medicine abruptly but consult your doctor and reduce the dosage under medical supervision. However, if you feel severe dependency or worse withdrawal symptoms, seek medical advice promptly. 

Nurofen Plus and addiction

The presence of codeine in this pain relief medication enhances the risk of addiction. That is why Nurofen Plus is recommended for a short duration, i.e., only 3 days.

If you use it in higher doses or for more than 3 days, it will lead you to psychological cravings and physical dependence.

To minimize the risk of addiction, use Nurofen Plus as directed by your healthcare professional. 

How do I know if I am addicted?

While taking this medication, if you notice any of these signs, it means you are addicted to this medicine, such as:

• You want to take this medication for long-term
  
  
• You want more than the recommended dose
  
  
• Once you stop taking it, you feel unwell, but when you use it again, you start feeling better. 
  
  
• If you suspect any of these situations, medical professional help should be sought promptly. 

Dosage

Nurofen Plus dosage instructions

The dosage of Nurofen Plus tablets (32) may vary from person to person based on the type and severity of pain. The standard dosage details are as follows:

Adults and children and adolescents between 12-18 years: 1-2 tablets 3 times a day. Give a gap of at least 4 hours between doses. Do not take it for more than 3 days. Avoid taking more than 6 tablets a day.

Children under 12 years: Medicine is not recommended for this age group.

Overdose: What if I take too much Nurofen Plus?

If you take more than the recommended dose, it will be classified as an overdose, and you may get the following symptoms such as:

• Stomach pain
• Nausea or vomiting
• Headache
• Confusion and drowsiness
• Ringing in the ears

If you get any of these symptoms, seek medical help or visit your doctor immediately.

Missed dose:: What if I forget to take Nurofen Plus?

If you forget to take your dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is too late or time for your next dose, skip the missed one and take your next dose at the usual time. Do not take double or extra doses. 

Warnings

Nurofen Plus side effects

Although Nurofen Plus is effective for pain relief, it can cause side effects in some people, such as:

Uncommon side effects

• Indigestion or heartburn
• Stomach pain
• Nausea
• Headaches
  
  
• Dizziness or drowsiness
• Feeling or being sick
• Diarrhea 

Serious side effects

Symptoms of severe allergic reactions such as severe peeling, skin rashes, blistering, shortness of breath, unexplained wheezing, or easy bruising,..

• Liver or kidney problems
  
  
• Signs of intestinal bleeding such as bloody vomiting or black tarry stools.
  
  
• Severe skin reaction (DRESS syndrome) such as swelling of lymph nodes, fever, skin rash, and an increase of eosinophils.
  
  
• Difficulty urinating
• Increased sensitivity to light
  
  
• Addiction or dependence
• Low level of potassium in the blood

Rare side effects

• Constipation 
• Worsening of asthma 
• Sweating
  
  
• Thirst
• Muscle weakness or tremors
• Sleeplessness
  
  
• Chest pain 
• Fast, irregular heartbeat
• Decreased appetite
• Depression
  
  
• Hallucination
• Blurred vision
  
  
• Sleep apnoea
• Increased sensitivity to pain
  
  
• Increased risk of heart attack (myocardial infarction) or stroke
  
  
• If you get any of these effects, stop taking this medication and consult your doctor. 

Nurofen Plus tablet ingredients

Each table of Nurofen Plus contains:

Active ingredients: 200 mg of ibuprofen and 12.8 mg of codeine phosphate.
Inactive ingredients: Microcrystalline cellulose, starch pregelatinized, sodium starch glycolate, opaspray white M-1-17111 B, hypromellose, and talc.

Once your order has been approved by our UK medical team it will be dispatched via Royal mail. All orders are sent using a tracked and signed for service.

Royal Mail 48 (2-5 days) | £3.49

Estimated delivery within 2-3 working days. Excludes bank holidays. Not a guaranteed service.

Free delivery on orders over £50.

Royal Mail 24 (Next working day) | £4.99

Estimated delivery within 1 working day. Excludes bank holidays. Not a guaranteed service.

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Order by the 2:00 PM weekday cut-off time for guaranteed delivery by 1:00 PM the next business day.

Orders placed after the cut-off on Friday will be delivered on Tuesday.