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Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg

Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg

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  • ✔️ Relieves headaches, migraines, and muscle pain effectively
  • ✔️ Contains 400mg ibuprofen — maximum OTC strength available
  • ✔️ Reduces inflammation and fever as well as pain
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over
  • ✔️ Works within 20–30 minutes of taking a tablet orally

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What Are Ibuprofen 400mg Tablets Used For?

 

Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg tablets are an over-the-counter pain reliever containing ibuprofen, one of the most widely used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in the UK. Whether you're dealing with a nagging headache, a flare-up of joint pain, or the discomfort of period cramps, this product is formulated to tackle moderate pain at the maximum non-prescription strength. You can browse the full range of options in our pain relief collection if you're comparing products before you buy.

Each tablet delivers 400mg of ibuprofen — the highest dose available without a prescription in the UK. That makes it a practical choice when standard 200mg ibuprofen simply isn't cutting through your symptoms. It's worth knowing that ibuprofen also reduces fever and inflammation, not just pain, which sets it apart from paracetamol-based alternatives.

 

How Does Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg Work?

 

Ibuprofen belongs to the NSAID class of medicines. It works by blocking cyclo-oxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2) enzymes in the body. These enzymes are responsible for producing prostaglandins — chemical messengers that trigger pain, swelling, and fever at the site of tissue damage or irritation. By reducing prostaglandin synthesis, ibuprofen addresses the underlying inflammatory process rather than simply masking discomfort.

  • Inhibits COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes throughout the body
  • Reduces prostaglandin production at the site of pain or injury
  • Lowers inflammation, which in turn reduces swelling and stiffness
  • Acts centrally and peripherally to reduce the perception of pain
  • Brings down elevated body temperature by acting on the hypothalamus

Onset of action is typically within 20 to 30 minutes of taking a tablet orally, with peak plasma concentrations reached within one to two hours. This relatively quick action makes it suitable for acute pain episodes.

 

Who Should Use Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg?

 

This product is suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over who need effective relief from moderate pain or inflammation. It is particularly well-suited to those who have found lower-strength ibuprofen (200mg) insufficient for their symptoms. That said, it's not appropriate for everyone — always read the label carefully before use.

  • Adults and adolescents aged 12 years and over
  • People experiencing headaches, migraines, or dental pain
  • Those with muscle aches, back pain, or minor joint pain
  • Women managing dysmenorrhoea (period pain)
  • Individuals with cold or flu symptoms who also have a fever

 

How Does Cuprofen Maximum Strength Compare to Standard Ibuprofen?

 

Feature Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg Standard Ibuprofen 200mg
Ibuprofen dose per tablet 400mg 200mg
Maximum OTC daily dose 1,200mg (3 tablets) 1,200mg (6 tablets)
Suitable for moderate pain Yes Mild to moderate
Minimum age 12 years 12 years (some brands 16+)

 

How Should You Store Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg?

 

Ibuprofen 400mg tablets should be stored below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep the tablets in their original packaging until you need them, and always check the expiry date before use. Do not store them in a bathroom cabinet where humidity can degrade the tablets over time.

Keep all medicines out of the sight and reach of children. If you have unused or expired tablets, do not flush them down the toilet or throw them in household waste — return them to your local pharmacy for safe disposal. If you're managing multiple health conditions, it's also worth exploring our vitamins and supplements collection to support your overall wellbeing alongside pain management.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg specifications
Treatment category Pain relief, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic
Mechanism of action COX-1 and COX-2 enzyme inhibition; reduces prostaglandin synthesis
Effective for Headache, migraine, muscle pain, joint pain, period pain, dental pain, fever
Suitable for Adults and adolescents aged 12 years and over
Active ingredient Ibuprofen 400mg
Strengths 400mg per tablet
UK classification General Sale List (GSL) / Pharmacy (P) medicine
Drug class Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
Preparation Film-coated tablet
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg

 

What Is Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg and What Is It Used For?

 

Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg is an over-the-counter NSAID medicine containing ibuprofen as its active ingredient. It is used to relieve mild to moderate pain, reduce inflammation, and bring down a high temperature (fever). Conditions it is commonly used for include headaches, dental pain, period pain (dysmenorrhoea), muscular aches, back pain, rheumatic and arthritic pain, and the symptoms of colds and flu.

It is available without a prescription for adults and young people aged 12 and over. The 400mg strength is the maximum dose of ibuprofen available over the counter in the UK, making it appropriate when lower-strength formulations have not provided adequate relief.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg?

 

Do not take this medicine if any of the following apply to you:

  • You are allergic to ibuprofen, aspirin, or any other NSAID
  • You have ever had a stomach ulcer, gastrointestinal bleeding, or perforation
  • You are in the third trimester of pregnancy (after 28 weeks)
  • You have severe heart failure, severe kidney disease, or severe liver disease
  • You are under 12 years of age
  • You have been told by a doctor to avoid NSAIDs

Speak to your pharmacist or GP before taking this medicine if you have asthma, high blood pressure, a history of heart disease or stroke, kidney or liver problems, Crohn's disease, or ulcerative colitis. Caution is also advised if you are in the first or second trimester of pregnancy or are breastfeeding.

The following medicines may interact with ibuprofen:

  • Aspirin or other NSAIDs (increased risk of side effects)
  • Warfarin or other anticoagulants (increased bleeding risk)
  • Lithium (ibuprofen may increase lithium blood levels)
  • Methotrexate (risk of toxicity increased)
  • Antihypertensives and diuretics (reduced effectiveness)
  • SSRIs such as fluoxetine (increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding)
  • Corticosteroids (increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration)

 

How Should You Use Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg?

 

Always take this medicine exactly as described on the label or as directed by your pharmacist. Do not exceed the stated dose.

  1. Take one 400mg tablet with a full glass of water.
  2. Swallow the tablet whole — do not crush or chew it.
  3. Take with or after food to reduce the risk of stomach upset.
  4. Wait at least four to six hours before taking another dose.
  5. Do not take more than three tablets (1,200mg) in any 24-hour period.
  6. If symptoms persist beyond three days (fever) or ten days (pain), consult a doctor.
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Pain / inflammation Adults & 12+ 400mg (1 tablet) Up to 3 times daily (every 4–6 hours)
Fever Adults & 12+ 400mg (1 tablet) Up to 3 times daily (every 4–6 hours)
Period pain Adults & 12+ 400mg (1 tablet) Up to 3 times daily (every 4–6 hours)
Children under 12 Under 12 years Not suitable — do not use

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg?

 

Like all medicines, ibuprofen can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Taking the tablet with food significantly reduces the risk of gastrointestinal effects. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, stop taking the medicine and seek medical advice promptly. You can also find supportive products for digestive discomfort in our indigestion collection.

Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Indigestion or heartburn
  • Stomach pain or discomfort
  • Diarrhoea or constipation
  • Flatulence (wind)

Less common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

  • Headache or dizziness
  • Skin rash or itching
  • Fluid retention (oedema)
  • Raised blood pressure
  • Gastric ulcer or gastrointestinal bleeding (seek immediate medical help if you notice black or bloody stools)
  • Allergic reactions including facial swelling, difficulty breathing, or worsening of asthma

 

How Should You Store Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg?

 

  • Store below 25°C in a dry place away from direct heat and sunlight
  • Keep in the original packaging to protect from moisture
  • Do not store in a bathroom or near a sink
  • Keep out of the sight and reach of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
  • Return unused or expired tablets to your local pharmacy for safe disposal — do not flush or bin them

If you are managing pain alongside other health concerns, our first aid collection includes a range of supportive products for everyday injuries and ailments.

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Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg online in the UK?

You can buy Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered online pharmacy, for just £6.59. It is available without a prescription as an over-the-counter medicine. Simply add it to your basket and it will be dispatched to your door. You can also browse our wider pain relief collection for related products.

How does Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg work in the body?

Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg contains ibuprofen, which works by inhibiting cyclo-oxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2) enzymes. This reduces the production of prostaglandins — the chemicals responsible for triggering pain, inflammation, and fever. The result is effective relief from a range of painful conditions, typically within 20 to 30 minutes of taking a tablet.

What is the correct dose of Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg for adults?

The recommended adult dose is one 400mg tablet taken up to three times daily, with doses spaced at least four to six hours apart. You should not exceed 1,200mg (three tablets) in any 24-hour period without medical advice. Always take the lowest effective dose for the shortest time necessary to control your symptoms.

Can I take Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg on an empty stomach?

It is strongly recommended to take ibuprofen tablets with or after food to reduce the risk of stomach irritation, indigestion, and nausea. Taking it on an empty stomach increases the likelihood of gastrointestinal side effects. A full glass of water also helps the tablet reach your stomach quickly and dissolve properly.

Who should not take Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg?

This product is not suitable for children under 12 years of age, people with a history of peptic ulcer or gastrointestinal bleeding, those with severe kidney, liver, or heart failure, or anyone allergic to ibuprofen, aspirin, or other NSAIDs. It should also be avoided in the third trimester of pregnancy. Always check with your pharmacist if you are unsure whether this medicine is right for you.

What are the common side effects of Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg?

The most common side effects of ibuprofen include nausea, indigestion, stomach pain, diarrhoea, and flatulence. These effects are more likely if you take the tablet on an empty stomach. Taking it with food usually helps. If you experience black or tarry stools, vomit blood, or have severe stomach pain, stop taking the medicine and seek urgent medical attention.

How long can I take Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg for?

For self-treatment, ibuprofen should not be used for more than three consecutive days to reduce a fever, or more than ten days for pain relief, without consulting a doctor. Long-term use of NSAIDs increases the risk of gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and renal side effects. If your symptoms persist beyond these timeframes, please speak to your GP.

What happens if I miss a dose of Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg?

If you miss a dose, simply take the next one when needed — as long as at least four to six hours have passed since your last tablet. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one. Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg is taken as needed for pain or fever, so there is no strict dosing schedule to follow.

Can I take Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg with paracetamol?

Yes, ibuprofen and paracetamol can generally be taken together as they work through different mechanisms and do not interact with each other. This combination is sometimes recommended by healthcare professionals for more effective pain relief. However, always check with your pharmacist before combining any medicines, especially if you are taking other products.

Is Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg safe during pregnancy?

Ibuprofen should be avoided during the third trimester of pregnancy (after 28 weeks) as it may harm the unborn baby. Use during the first and second trimesters should only be considered on medical advice, as it may also carry risks. If you are pregnant or trying to conceive, speak to your GP or midwife before taking any NSAID.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg?

Drinking alcohol while taking ibuprofen increases the risk of stomach irritation and gastrointestinal bleeding. It is advisable to avoid or limit alcohol consumption while using this medicine. If you regularly drink alcohol or have a history of stomach problems, speak to your pharmacist before taking ibuprofen.

What medicines interact with Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg?

Ibuprofen can interact with several medicines, including warfarin and other anticoagulants, aspirin, lithium, methotrexate, antihypertensives, diuretics, SSRIs, and corticosteroids. These interactions can increase the risk of side effects or reduce the effectiveness of other medicines. Always tell your pharmacist about all medicines you are taking before starting ibuprofen.

What are the alternatives to Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg?

Alternatives include paracetamol for mild to moderate pain without inflammation, aspirin for adults needing pain and fever relief, or naproxen for longer-lasting anti-inflammatory action. Topical ibuprofen gels are also available for localised muscle and joint pain. Your pharmacist can help you choose the most appropriate option based on your symptoms and medical history.

Is Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg suitable for migraines?

Yes, ibuprofen is one of the recommended first-line treatments for migraine headaches according to NHS guidance. Taking it at the first sign of a migraine, with or after food, gives the best chance of effective relief. If your migraines are frequent or severe, speak to your GP about longer-term management options. You can also explore our cold and flu collection for products that address associated symptoms like congestion.

What are the latest studies on ibuprofen 400mg for pain relief?

Ibuprofen remains one of the most extensively studied analgesics in clinical medicine. Current evidence continues to support its effectiveness for acute pain, dysmenorrhoea, and inflammatory conditions at the 400mg dose. Research also highlights the importance of using the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration to minimise cardiovascular and gastrointestinal risks, in line with current NHS and MHRA guidance.

How Should You Use Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg?

Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg tablets are taken orally with a full glass of water. Always take them with or after food to protect your stomach lining and reduce the risk of indigestion. Swallow each tablet whole — do not crush, chew, or break it.

What Is the Correct Dose of Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg?

The correct dose depends on your age and the condition being treated. Adults and young people aged 12 and over should take one 400mg tablet per dose. This is the maximum strength available without a prescription in the UK, so it is important not to exceed the stated dose. Children under 12 years of age must not take this product.

When Is the Best Time to Use Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg?

Take Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg as soon as your symptoms begin for the most effective relief. For conditions like migraines, early treatment at the first sign of an attack tends to produce better outcomes than waiting until pain is severe. For period pain, some people find it helpful to take a dose shortly before symptoms are expected to start, based on their usual cycle.

Always take the tablet with or after a meal or snack, regardless of the time of day. This is particularly important if you are taking it regularly over several days, as consistent food intake alongside the medicine helps protect the stomach lining.

How Long Can You Use Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg For?

For fever, do not use this medicine for more than three consecutive days without seeking medical advice. For pain relief, do not use for more than ten consecutive days without consulting a doctor. Using ibuprofen for longer than these periods without medical supervision increases the risk of gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and renal side effects. If your pain or fever is not improving within the recommended timeframe, this may indicate an underlying condition that requires professional assessment.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

Customer Reviews

Based on 3 reviews
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E
Elizabeth Dittner

It helps deal with pain from inflammation.

S
Steve

As described, works for me.

B
Brenda

I buy these tablets because they seem to work best on my pain.

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg?

Like all NSAIDs, ibuprofen can cause side effects, though not everyone experiences them. The most common side effects affect the gastrointestinal system and are more likely if you take the tablet on an empty stomach. Taking it with food significantly reduces this risk.

  • Nausea or feeling sick
  • Indigestion or heartburn
  • Stomach pain or discomfort
  • Diarrhoea
  • Constipation
  • Flatulence (wind)

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg?

Less common side effects occur in fewer people but are still worth being aware of. If you notice any of the following, speak to your pharmacist or GP, particularly if they are persistent or troublesome.

  • Headache or dizziness
  • Skin rash, itching, or hives
  • Fluid retention causing swelling in the ankles or feet
  • Raised blood pressure
  • Tiredness or fatigue
  • Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg?

Serious side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention. Stop taking this medicine and seek urgent help if you experience any of the following. These can indicate gastrointestinal bleeding, a severe allergic reaction, or organ damage — all of which need prompt assessment.

  • Black, tarry, or bloody stools — a sign of gastrointestinal bleeding
  • Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
  • Severe stomach pain
  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (angioedema)
  • Difficulty breathing or worsening of asthma
  • Chest pain or signs of a heart attack or stroke
  • Severe skin reactions such as blistering or peeling
  • Significant reduction in urine output (possible kidney impairment)

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects of Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg?

If you experience mild side effects such as indigestion or nausea, try taking the tablet with a larger meal or a glass of milk. If side effects are moderate or persistent, stop taking the medicine and speak to your pharmacist. For any serious or unexpected reaction, stop immediately and contact your GP or call 111. In an emergency, call 999.

You can also report suspected side effects directly to the MHRA through the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk. This helps improve medicine safety for everyone.

Can Cuprofen Maximum Strength 400mg Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes. Ibuprofen has several clinically significant drug interactions that you should be aware of before taking this medicine. Always inform your pharmacist of all medicines you are currently taking, including over-the-counter products and herbal remedies. Key interactions include aspirin and other NSAIDs (increased gastrointestinal risk), warfarin and anticoagulants (increased bleeding risk), lithium (elevated plasma levels), methotrexate (increased toxicity), antihypertensives and diuretics (reduced effectiveness), SSRIs (increased bleeding risk), and corticosteroids (increased ulcer risk).

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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