Ibuprofen for adults (Nurofen)
NHS information about ibuprofen for adults, including what it's used for, who can use it, how to use it and side effects.
This information is for adults aged 18 or over. There's separate information about ibuprofen for children.
What ibuprofen is for
Ibuprofen is a type of painkiller called a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).
Ibuprofen and other NSAIDs can help with lots of types of pain, including:
- headaches and migraines
- joint and muscle pain
- pain after an injury
- toothache
- period pain
Ibuprofen can also help reduce a high temperature (fever).
How to take ibuprofen and how much to take (dose)
There are several different types of ibuprofen, including:
- tablets and capsules
- gels and sprays
- liquid
- granules you mix with water
How you use your medicine and how much to use depends on which type it is and how much ibuprofen it contains.
Always check the packet or leaflet that comes with your medicine. Ask a pharmacist or doctor for advice if you're not sure how to use it or have any problems using it.
If a doctor prescribes ibuprofen for you, follow the advice they give you about how to use it and how much to use.
How to take common types of ibuprofen
Side effects of ibuprofen
Like all medicines, ibuprofen can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them.
Common side effects
Common side effects of ibuprofen tablets, capsules, liquid and granules include:
- indigestion and stomach aches
- feeling sick (nausea) and being sick (vomiting)
- headaches
- a rash
- dizziness
- diarrhoea or constipation
You're less likely to get side effects from ibuprofen gel or spray.
Ibuprofen will not usually affect your ability to drive, ride a bike or use machinery, but if you feel dizzy after taking it, wait until the dizziness stops.
More about side effects
These are not all the side effects of ibuprofen.
For a full list, see the leaflet that comes with your medicine or search for your medicine leaflet on the electronic medicines compendium website.
You can report any side effects you get on the Yellow Card website
Who can and cannot use ibuprofen
Most adults can use ibuprofen.
But ibuprofen is not suitable for everyone. For example, it may not be suitable if:
- you've had an allergic reaction to ibuprofen, aspirin or another non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
- you have a stomach ulcer or you've had them before
- you have asthma or allergies (such as hay fever)
- you have chickenpox
- you have a heart, liver or kidney condition
- you have problems with blood clotting
- you've had a stroke
- you're pregnant or trying to get pregnant
Check the packet or leaflet that comes with your medicine to see if it's suitable for you. Speak to a pharmacist or doctor if you're not sure if you can use it.
Breastfeeding and ibuprofen
If you're breastfeeding, check with a pharmacist or doctor before using ibuprofen.
Paracetamol is usually the best painkiller to take if you're breastfeeding, but ibuprofen can often be used if needed.
If you use the gel or spray, use it on the smallest area of skin you need to and try to avoid your baby's skin touching the area where you applied it, if you can.
It's rare for breastfed babies to get any side effects from medicine you're taking, but speak to a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about your baby.
Pregnancy and ibuprofen
You should avoid using ibuprofen during pregnancy unless you're advised to by a doctor or pharmacist.
Paracetamol is usually the best painkiller to take if you're pregnant.
Taking ibuprofen with other medicines, food and drink
There are some medicines, remedies and supplements that may not mix well with ibuprofen.
These include some types of:
- anticoagulants (such as warfarin)
- steroid medicines
- antidepressants
- medicines to lower blood pressure
Check the packet or leaflet that comes with your medicine to see if it's suitable for you. Speak to a pharmacist or doctor if you're not sure if you can take it.
Taking ibuprofen with other painkillers
Adults can take ibuprofen at the same time as paracetamol if needed, but it's a good idea to try them on their own first to see if they relieve your pain.
Do not take ibuprofen at the same time as other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as naproxen or aspirin. This can increase the risk of serious side effects like stomach ulcers.
Food, drink and alcohol with ibuprofen
You can eat and drink normally while taking ibuprofen, but try to avoid drinking a lot of alcohol because this can increase the risk of side effects.
Find out more about your medicine
To find out more about your medicine, you can:
- check the leaflet that comes with it
- search for your medicine leaflet on the electronic medicines compendium website
- speak to a pharmacist for advice
