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:

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:

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:

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:

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.

Find out more about taking ibuprofen during pregnancy on the Bumps (Best Use of Medicines in Pregnancy) website

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:

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: