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Nurofen is a popular pain reliever and antipyretic. The drug is taken orally in the form of tablets. Nurofen will help us fight the symptoms of flu and colds, but also fight migraine headaches. Its use, however, is not always safe, and some people should completely stop taking it.
During colds and flu, we often reach for over-the-counter medications first. Among them is Nurofen, which makes us feel better quickly. However, you should be very careful when using Nurofen and be careful not to exceed the permissible doses. See what to keep in mind when using Nurofen.
Nurofen – Action
Nurofen is a drug that contains the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug ibuprofen, which is a derivative of propionic acid. This drug has anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic effects.
The active substance of Nurofen is absorbed very quickly after administration, mainly in the stomach, but also in the small intestine. Its maximum concentration is achieved 1-2 hours after administration.
Nurofen – indications
Nurofen should be used for pain of various origins that is mild to moderate. It is an ideal remedy for headache, migraine, toothache, muscle pain, bone pain, joint pain and other pain associated with flu and colds.
Nurofen will also help ease period pains. What is very important, you should remember about it during fever of various causes.
Nurofen – contraindications
Unfortunately, despite the indications to administer Nurofen, this cannot always be done. The use of Nurofen is excluded if the patient is allergic to any of the ingredients of the drug.
The use of the drug is therefore excluded in people allergic to acetylsalicylic acid, i.e. aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Symptoms of an allergy include an attack of asthma, hives and a runny nose.
People should also give up using the preparation:
- with ulcers of the stomach and duodenum, as well as bleeding or perforation;
- using other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs;
- with renal, heart or liver failure;
- with the risk of bleeding.
Nurofen should also not be taken by women in the third trimester of pregnancy and children under 6 years of age.
Nurofen – precautions
Nurofen should be used for short periods, which reduces the risk of side effects. Usually, if symptoms persist after 3 days, see your doctor.
Be aware that Nurofen can mask various symptoms of infections that it does not treat. So if you suspect you have an infection you should see a doctor.
To avoid Nurofen side effects, be especially careful with:
- patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and mixed connective tissue disease;
- patients with various diseases of the digestive system;
- with diseases of the circulatory system, liver, kidneys;
- with blood coagulation disorders;
- with bronchial asthma and allergies;
- Elderly;
- taking other medications at the same time.
The side effects of Nurofen include haemorrhage and gastrointestinal discomfort, kidney damage, heart attack, stroke, severe skin reactions. In addition, Nurofen can affect female fertility, so it should not be used by women trying to conceive.
Nurofen – dosage
Nurofen is in the form of film-coated tablets. The permissible daily doses should not be exceeded. 1 tablet contains 200 mg of ibuprofen.
Dosage:
- adults and children after 12 years of age – 400 mg daily, then from 200 to 400 mg every 4-6 hours. Do not exceed 1200 mg per day;
- children from 6 years of age and over 20 kg – 20-30 mg per kg of body weight;
- children 6-9 years old weighing 20-30 kg – 200 mg every 6 hours, but not more than 600 mg per day;
- children aged 9-12 years weighing 30-40 kg – 200 mg every 4-6 hours, but not more than 800 mg per day.
The 4 hour interval is the minimum interval between doses. Nurofen should not be used on its own for more than 3 days. You should also be careful when taking other medications, especially those without a prescription. Then it is very easy to exceed the permissible ibuprofen dose.
Before use, read the leaflet, which contains indications, contraindications, data on side effects and dosage as well as information on the use of the medicinal product, or consult your doctor or pharmacist, as each drug used improperly is a threat to your life or health.