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Feminax Express 16 Tablets

Feminax Express 16 Tablets

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  • ✔️ Targets period pain at the source by reducing prostaglandin production
  • ✔️ Ibuprofen lysine absorbs faster than standard ibuprofen tablets
  • ✔️ Relieves associated menstrual headache and lower back pain
  • ✔️ Suitable for women and girls aged 12 years and over
  • ✔️ Each pack contains 16 tablets for multi-day menstrual cycle coverage

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What Are Period Pain Tablets and How Does Feminax Express Help?

 

Period pain — medically known as dysmenorrhoea — affects a significant number of women and people who menstruate in the UK. It can range from a dull, nagging ache to sharp, debilitating cramps that interfere with daily life. Period pain tablets like Feminax Express 16 Tablets are specifically formulated to target this discomfort quickly and effectively. Each tablet contains ibuprofen lysine 342 mg, which is equivalent to 200 mg of ibuprofen — a well-established non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). If you're looking for targeted menstrual pain relief, you can explore our full pain relief collection for a range of options suited to different needs.

What sets Feminax Express apart from standard ibuprofen tablets is the lysine salt formulation. Ibuprofen lysine is absorbed into the bloodstream more rapidly than conventional ibuprofen, meaning relief can begin sooner after taking the first dose. For many women, that speed matters — especially when cramps strike at work, school, or during an otherwise busy day.

 

How Does Feminax Express Work to Relieve Menstrual Pain?

 

The mechanism behind Feminax Express is rooted in prostaglandin inhibition. During menstruation, the uterine lining releases prostaglandins — hormone-like chemicals that trigger uterine muscle contractions. Higher prostaglandin levels are associated with more intense cramping. Ibuprofen lysine works by blocking the cyclo-oxygenase (COX) enzymes responsible for prostaglandin production, thereby reducing both the intensity of contractions and associated inflammation.

  • Inhibits COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes to reduce prostaglandin synthesis
  • Decreases uterine muscle contractions that cause cramping
  • Reduces associated inflammation contributing to pelvic discomfort
  • Lysine salt formulation allows faster dissolution and absorption compared to standard ibuprofen

This dual action — anti-inflammatory and analgesic — makes it particularly well-suited to period-related pain, which often involves both cramping and generalised pelvic inflammation.

 

Who Is Feminax Express Suitable For?

 

Feminax Express is intended for women aged 12 years and over who experience mild to moderate period pain. It can also help with associated symptoms such as headache and backache that often accompany menstruation. That said, it isn't right for everyone — and it's important to check suitability before use.

  • Women and girls aged 12 and over with dysmenorrhoea (period pain)
  • Those experiencing menstruation-related headache or lower back pain
  • People who need faster-acting relief than standard ibuprofen tablets provide
  • Those without contraindications to NSAIDs (see below for full list)

It is not suitable for use during pregnancy, particularly from 20 weeks onwards, without medical supervision. If you have any underlying health conditions, always speak to your pharmacist or GP before starting any new medicine.

 

How Does Feminax Express Compare to Standard Ibuprofen Tablets?

 

Feature Feminax Express 16 Tablets Standard Ibuprofen 200 mg Tablets
Active ingredient Ibuprofen lysine 342 mg Ibuprofen 200 mg
Speed of absorption Faster (lysine salt formulation) Standard absorption rate
Indicated use Period pain, headache, backache General pain, fever, inflammation
Minimum age 12 years Varies by product (often 12+)

 

How Should Feminax Express Be Stored and Is It Clinically Suitable for You?

 

Store Feminax Express below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and out of the reach and sight of children. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging. If you're managing multiple health concerns alongside period pain — for example, digestive discomfort — it may be worth browsing our women's health collection for complementary products.

Clinically, period pain tablets containing ibuprofen lysine are well-tolerated by most healthy adults and adolescents when used as directed. However, if your period pain is severe, worsening over time, or not responding to over-the-counter treatment, this may indicate an underlying condition such as endometriosis or fibroids. In that case, please consult your GP rather than relying solely on OTC pain relief.

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.

Feminax Express 16 Tablets specifications
Treatment category Period pain / Dysmenorrhoea
Mechanism of action COX enzyme inhibition; reduces prostaglandin synthesis
Effective for Period pain, menstrual headache, menstrual backache
Suitable for Women and girls aged 12 years and over
Active ingredient Ibuprofen lysine 342 mg (equiv. ibuprofen 200 mg)
Pack size 16 tablets
Strength 342 mg ibuprofen lysine per tablet
UK classification General Sale List (GSL)
Drug class Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
Preparation Film-coated tablet
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Feminax Express 16 Tablets

 

What Is Feminax Express and What Is It Used For?

 

Feminax Express 16 Tablets are an over-the-counter medicine used to relieve the symptoms of primary dysmenorrhoea — the medical term for period pain not caused by an underlying condition. Each tablet contains ibuprofen lysine 342 mg, equivalent to 200 mg of ibuprofen, a well-established NSAID. The lysine salt form is designed to be absorbed more quickly than standard ibuprofen, making it particularly useful when you need relief to kick in promptly. It can also help with associated symptoms including headache and lower back pain that often accompany menstruation.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Feminax Express?

 

Before taking Feminax Express, it's essential to check whether it is appropriate for you. Do not take this medicine if any of the following apply:

  • You are allergic to ibuprofen, aspirin, or any other NSAID
  • You have or have had a stomach ulcer, gastrointestinal bleeding, or perforation
  • You have severe kidney, liver, or heart failure
  • You are in the last trimester of pregnancy (and caution is advised from 20 weeks onwards)
  • You are under 12 years of age
  • You have a history of bronchospasm triggered by aspirin or NSAIDs

Speak to your pharmacist or GP before taking Feminax Express if you have asthma, high blood pressure, a history of heart disease, inflammatory bowel disease, or any clotting disorder. The following medicines may interact with ibuprofen lysine:

  • Anticoagulants (e.g. warfarin) — increased bleeding risk
  • Aspirin or other NSAIDs — increased risk of side effects
  • Lithium — ibuprofen may increase lithium plasma levels
  • Methotrexate — ibuprofen may increase methotrexate toxicity
  • Antihypertensives — NSAIDs may reduce their effectiveness
  • SSRIs — increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding when combined

 

How Should You Use Feminax Express?

 

Always read the patient information leaflet supplied with your pack before taking Feminax Express. Take the tablets orally with a full glass of water, ideally with or after food to reduce the risk of stomach upset.

  1. Take 2 tablets as your initial dose at the onset of period pain
  2. If pain persists, take 1 or 2 tablets every 4 to 6 hours as needed
  3. Do not take more than 6 tablets in any 24-hour period
  4. Do not use for more than 3 consecutive days without consulting a pharmacist or GP
  5. Swallow tablets whole with water — do not crush or chew
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Period pain 12–17 years 1–2 tablets initially, then 1–2 tablets Every 4–6 hours (max 6 tablets/24 hrs)
Period pain 18 years and over 2 tablets initially, then 1–2 tablets Every 4–6 hours (max 6 tablets/24 hrs)

If you are also managing other health concerns during your cycle — such as bloating or cramping unrelated to your period — our IBS and cramps collection may have additional products worth considering.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Feminax Express?

 

Like all medicines, Feminax Express can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are mild and resolve once you stop taking the medicine.

Common side effects:

  • Nausea or stomach discomfort
  • Indigestion or heartburn
  • Diarrhoea or constipation
  • Headache

Less common side effects:

  • Dizziness or drowsiness
  • Skin rash or itching
  • Fluid retention (oedema)
  • Raised blood pressure

Stop taking Feminax Express and seek immediate medical attention if you experience signs of a serious allergic reaction (such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat), black or tarry stools, vomiting blood, or severe abdominal pain. These may indicate gastrointestinal bleeding, which requires urgent assessment.

 

How Should You Store Feminax Express?

 

Correct storage helps maintain the quality and safety of your tablets. Follow these guidelines:

  • Store below 25°C in a dry place
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture
  • Keep out of the reach and sight of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the carton
  • Do not store in a bathroom or near a sink
  • Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused tablets to your pharmacy

If you're looking to support your overall wellbeing alongside pain management, our vitamins and supplements collection includes options that may help with general health during your cycle.

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

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 Feminax Express 16 Tablets online in the UK?

You can buy Feminax Express 16 Tablets directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, for just £4.49. It is a General Sale List (GSL) medicine, so no prescription is needed. It is also available from some supermarkets and high street pharmacies across the UK.

How does Feminax Express work in the body?

Feminax Express contains ibuprofen lysine, which inhibits the cyclo-oxygenase (COX) enzymes that produce prostaglandins — the chemicals responsible for uterine contractions and inflammation during menstruation. By reducing prostaglandin levels, it eases cramping, pain, and associated discomfort. The lysine salt form is absorbed faster than standard ibuprofen, so relief tends to come sooner.

How do I take Feminax Express step by step?

Start with 2 tablets at the onset of period pain, then take 1 to 2 tablets every 4 to 6 hours as needed. Always swallow with a full glass of water, ideally with or after food. Do not exceed 6 tablets in any 24-hour period.

What is the maximum dose of Feminax Express per day?

The maximum recommended dose is 6 tablets in any 24-hour period. This applies to both adults and young people aged 12 and over. Never exceed this amount, and do not take the medicine for more than 3 consecutive days without speaking to a pharmacist or GP.

When is the best time to take Feminax Express for period pain?

Feminax Express works best when taken at the first sign of period pain, rather than waiting until the pain becomes severe. Taking it with or after food can help reduce the chance of stomach upset. Some women find it helpful to take it the day before their period is due if they know their cycle well.

What are the side effects of Feminax Express?

Common side effects include nausea, indigestion, stomach discomfort, and headache. Less commonly, some people experience dizziness, skin rash, or fluid retention. Stop taking the tablets and seek medical advice immediately if you notice signs of an allergic reaction, black stools, or vomiting blood.

How do I manage side effects of Feminax Express?

Taking Feminax Express with food or milk can help reduce stomach-related side effects such as nausea and indigestion. If you experience persistent or severe side effects, stop taking the medicine and consult your pharmacist or GP. Do not take additional antacids without checking with a healthcare professional first.

Who should not take Feminax Express?

Feminax Express is not suitable for people who are allergic to ibuprofen, aspirin, or other NSAIDs, or those with an active stomach ulcer or gastrointestinal bleeding. It is also not recommended for people with severe kidney, liver, or heart failure, or for those in the later stages of pregnancy. Always check with your pharmacist if you are unsure.

Can I take Feminax Express if I am pregnant?

Feminax Express is not recommended during pregnancy, particularly from 20 weeks onwards, as ibuprofen may affect fetal kidney development and reduce amniotic fluid levels. If you are pregnant and experiencing pain, speak to your GP or midwife before taking any over-the-counter pain relief. Paracetamol is generally considered safer during pregnancy, but always seek professional advice first.

Can I take Feminax Express with other medicines?

Feminax Express can interact with several medicines, including anticoagulants like warfarin, other NSAIDs, lithium, methotrexate, antihypertensives, and SSRIs. Always tell your pharmacist about all medicines you are currently taking before starting Feminax Express. If you are on regular prescribed medication, it is worth checking with your GP too.

Is Feminax Express suitable for teenagers?

Yes, Feminax Express is suitable for young people aged 12 years and over. The dosage for those aged 12 to 17 is the same as for adults — up to 6 tablets in 24 hours — but it should be used under adult supervision for younger teenagers. If a teenager's period pain is severe or not responding to treatment, a GP should be consulted. You can also explore our women's health collection for additional support products.

What happens if I miss a dose of Feminax Express?

Feminax Express is taken as needed for pain relief rather than on a fixed schedule, so there is no "missed dose" in the traditional sense. If your pain returns and it has been at least 4 hours since your last dose, you can take another 1 to 2 tablets. Never double up doses to compensate.

How long can I take Feminax Express for?

Feminax Express is intended for short-term use only — no more than 3 consecutive days at a time. If your period pain consistently requires more than 3 days of pain relief, or if the pain is worsening, speak to your GP. Persistent or severe dysmenorrhoea can sometimes indicate an underlying condition such as endometriosis or fibroids.

What are the alternatives to Feminax Express for period pain?

Alternatives include standard ibuprofen tablets, naproxen (available OTC as Feminax Ultra), or paracetamol for those who cannot take NSAIDs. Heat therapy — such as a hot water bottle applied to the lower abdomen — is also a well-recognised non-pharmacological option recommended by the NHS. Browse our pain relief collection to compare available options.

What does the latest research say about ibuprofen for period pain?

NSAIDs, including ibuprofen, remain the most evidence-based first-line pharmacological treatment for primary dysmenorrhoea according to current clinical guidelines. Research consistently shows they are more effective than paracetamol for menstrual cramp relief due to their direct action on prostaglandin synthesis. The NHS and NICE both support their use for this indication in appropriate patients.

How Should You Use Feminax Express?

Feminax Express tablets should be swallowed whole with a full glass of water. Taking them with or after food is strongly recommended, as this helps to reduce the likelihood of stomach irritation — a common concern with NSAID-based medicines.

What Is the Correct Dose of Feminax Express?

The correct dose depends on your age. The table below summarises the recommended dosing for Feminax Express. Always follow the instructions in the patient information leaflet supplied with your pack, and never exceed the stated maximum daily dose.

When Is the Best Time to Use Feminax Express?

For the best results, take Feminax Express at the very first sign of period pain rather than waiting until the discomfort becomes severe. Because ibuprofen lysine is absorbed relatively quickly, early use means the medicine can begin working before prostaglandin levels peak. If you have a predictable cycle, some women find it helpful to take the first dose the day before their period is expected to begin — though you should discuss this approach with your pharmacist first.

Avoid taking Feminax Express on an empty stomach where possible. A light snack or meal beforehand can make a real difference to tolerability, particularly if you are prone to indigestion.

How Long Can You Use Feminax Express For?

Feminax Express is designed for short-term use only. Do not take it for more than 3 consecutive days without seeking advice from a pharmacist or GP. If your period pain is not adequately controlled within this timeframe, or if the pain is getting progressively worse over successive cycles, this warrants a medical review. Conditions such as endometriosis or uterine fibroids can present with severe dysmenorrhoea and require a different treatment approach entirely.

Long-term or frequent use of NSAIDs without medical supervision is not recommended, as it can increase the risk of gastrointestinal, renal, and cardiovascular side effects.

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

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What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Feminax Express?

Most people tolerate Feminax Express well when taken as directed, but like all NSAID-containing medicines, it can cause side effects in some individuals. The most frequently reported ones are gastrointestinal in nature, which is why taking the tablets with food is always advised.

  • Nausea or feeling sick
  • Indigestion or heartburn
  • Stomach discomfort or abdominal pain
  • Diarrhoea or constipation
  • Headache

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Feminax Express?

Less commonly, some people may experience side effects that are not directly related to the digestive system. These are generally mild and tend to resolve once the medicine is stopped, but they are worth being aware of.

  • Dizziness or light-headedness
  • Drowsiness
  • Skin rash or itching
  • Fluid retention (oedema), particularly in the ankles or feet
  • Raised blood pressure
  • Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) — rare

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Feminax Express?

Serious side effects are uncommon but require immediate medical attention if they occur. Stop taking Feminax Express straight away and call 999 or go to your nearest A&E if you experience any of the following:

  • Signs of a severe allergic reaction — swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat; difficulty breathing; severe skin rash
  • Black, tarry, or blood-streaked stools — may indicate gastrointestinal bleeding
  • Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
  • Severe chest pain or shortness of breath
  • Sudden vision changes or severe headache

These reactions are rare but can be serious. Do not ignore them or wait to see if they improve on their own.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

If you notice mild side effects such as nausea or indigestion, try taking your next dose with food or a glass of milk. This often helps significantly. If side effects persist, worsen, or concern you in any way, stop taking the tablets and speak to your pharmacist or GP as soon as possible. You can also report suspected side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.

Can Feminax Express Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes — ibuprofen lysine can interact with a number of commonly prescribed and over-the-counter medicines. These interactions can either reduce the effectiveness of other drugs or increase the risk of side effects. Always inform your pharmacist or GP about everything you are taking, including herbal remedies and supplements.

  • Warfarin and other anticoagulants — increased risk of bleeding
  • Aspirin or other NSAIDs — increased risk of gastrointestinal side effects
  • Lithium — ibuprofen may raise lithium blood levels to potentially toxic concentrations
  • Methotrexate — ibuprofen may increase methotrexate toxicity
  • ACE inhibitors and diuretics — NSAIDs may reduce their blood pressure-lowering effect
  • SSRIs (e.g. fluoxetine, sertraline) — combined use increases the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding

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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