Skip to product information
1 of 1

  • Images are for illustration purposes only

Feminax Express

Feminax Express

  • 1. Ozempic®️-equivalent therapy now available for weight management
  • 2. Average weight loss of 17%, with 1 in 3 patients achieving over 20%
  • 3. May help reduce osteoarthritis-related pain
  • 4. Wegovy®️ is not expected to impact the effectiveness of oral contraceptives
  • 5. Supports cardiovascular risk reduction
  • 6. Over 22 million patients treated with semaglutide-based therapies since 2018

  • ✔️ Targets prostaglandins to relieve menstrual cramping at the source
  • ✔️ Ibuprofen lysine absorbs faster than standard ibuprofen tablets
  • ✔️ Suitable for women and girls aged 12 and over
  • ✔️ Relieves period pain, lower back ache, and pelvic discomfort
  • ✔️ Available without a prescription as a UK Pharmacy medicine

Price Checker

Regular price £3.99
Sale price £3.99
Sale Sold out
  • Lowest price guarantee
  • Includes FREE private prescription
View full details

 

What Are Feminax Express Period Pain Tablets?

 

Period pain affects millions of women in the UK every month. For some, it's a mild inconvenience; for others, it can be genuinely debilitating. Feminax Express period pain tablets are specifically formulated to tackle the cramping, aching, and discomfort that comes with menstruation — and they're designed to get to work quickly. Each tablet contains 342mg of ibuprofen lysine, a salt form of ibuprofen that is absorbed faster by the body than standard ibuprofen tablets, making it a practical choice when you need relief without delay.

Available without a prescription, Feminax Express is suitable for women and girls aged 12 and over. If you're looking for a reliable option alongside other women's health products, this is one worth knowing about. It's a P (pharmacy) medicine in the UK, meaning it can be purchased from a registered pharmacy without seeing a GP.

 

How Does Feminax Express Work to Relieve Period Pain?

 

The active ingredient, ibuprofen lysine, belongs to a class of medicines called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). During menstruation, the uterine lining releases chemicals called prostaglandins. These trigger uterine muscle contractions — which is what causes that familiar cramping sensation. NSAIDs work by inhibiting the enzymes (COX-1 and COX-2) responsible for prostaglandin production, thereby reducing both pain and inflammation at the source.

  • Ibuprofen lysine is absorbed more rapidly than standard ibuprofen due to its salt formulation
  • Onset of action can be as fast as 15–30 minutes in some individuals
  • Reduces prostaglandin-driven uterine contractions
  • Also provides general anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects

 

Who Is Feminax Express Suitable For?

 

Feminax Express is indicated for the relief of painful periods, medically known as primary dysmenorrhoea. It's designed for women and girls aged 12 and over who experience regular menstrual cramping. That said, it isn't right for everyone — and it's important to check before you take it.

  • Women aged 12 and over experiencing primary dysmenorrhoea
  • Those who have not found adequate relief from paracetamol alone
  • Women without a history of NSAID sensitivity, peptic ulcers, or significant kidney, liver, or heart conditions
  • Those not currently pregnant (especially not in the third trimester)

If you're unsure whether this medicine is right for you, speak to your pharmacist before purchasing. You can also explore our broader pain relief range for alternative options.

 

How Does Feminax Express Compare to Standard Ibuprofen Tablets?

 

Feature Feminax Express Standard Ibuprofen 200mg
Active ingredient Ibuprofen lysine 342mg Ibuprofen 200mg
Speed of absorption Faster (lysine salt form) Standard absorption rate
Indicated use Period pain (dysmenorrhoea) General pain, fever, inflammation
Minimum age 12 years 12 years (200mg tablets)

 

How Should You Store Feminax Express 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 of children. Do not use the tablets after the expiry date printed on the packaging. If you have any underlying health conditions — particularly relating to your kidneys, liver, heart, or gastrointestinal tract — it's worth having a conversation with your pharmacist or GP before starting any NSAID, including this one.

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 specifications
Treatment category Period pain (dysmenorrhoea)
Mechanism of action NSAID — inhibits COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, reducing prostaglandin synthesis
Effective Relief of painful menstruation
Suitable for Women and girls aged 12 and over
Active ingredient Ibuprofen lysine 342mg per tablet
Pack sizes 16 tablets
Strengths 342mg ibuprofen lysine (equivalent to 200mg ibuprofen)
UK classification P (Pharmacy medicine)
Drug class Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
Preparation Film-coated tablet
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Feminax Express

 

What Is Feminax Express and What Is It Used For?

 

Feminax Express is an over-the-counter medicine used to relieve the pain associated with menstruation, commonly known as period pain or primary dysmenorrhoea. Each film-coated tablet contains 342mg of ibuprofen lysine — equivalent to 200mg of ibuprofen — in a rapidly absorbed salt form. It is licensed for use in women and girls aged 12 and over in the UK and is classified as a Pharmacy (P) medicine.

Period pain occurs when the uterus contracts to shed its lining, driven by prostaglandins. Feminax Express targets this process directly, helping to reduce cramping, lower back pain, and general pelvic discomfort associated with menstruation. It is not intended for use in conditions unrelated to menstrual pain.

 

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 peptic ulcer, gastrointestinal bleeding, or perforation
  • You have severe heart failure, severe kidney impairment, or severe liver impairment
  • You are in the third trimester of pregnancy
  • You are under 12 years of age
  • You have a history of bronchospasm triggered by NSAIDs or aspirin

The following medicines may interact with Feminax Express. Always tell your pharmacist or GP what you are taking:

  • Other NSAIDs or aspirin (increased risk of side effects)
  • Anticoagulants such as warfarin (increased bleeding risk)
  • SSRIs such as fluoxetine or sertraline (increased gastrointestinal bleeding risk)
  • Antihypertensives including ACE inhibitors and diuretics (reduced effectiveness)
  • Lithium and methotrexate (ibuprofen may increase plasma levels)
  • Corticosteroids (increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration)

 

How Should You Use Feminax Express?

 

Always take Feminax Express exactly as directed on the packaging or as advised by your pharmacist. Taking it with food or milk can help reduce the chance of stomach upset. Swallow the tablets whole with a full glass of water.

  1. Take 2 tablets as your initial dose at the onset of period pain
  2. If pain persists, take 1 to 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 days without speaking to a pharmacist or GP
  5. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember — but skip it if your next dose is due soon. Never double up.
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Period pain 12 years and over 2 tablets initially, then 1–2 tablets Every 4–6 hours (max 6 tablets/24 hrs)
Period pain Under 12 years Not recommended Not applicable

If you're managing other symptoms alongside period pain — such as bloating or cramping unrelated to menstruation — you may find it helpful to browse our IBS and cramps collection for additional support options.

 

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 tablets.

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

  • Nausea or stomach upset
  • Indigestion or heartburn
  • Abdominal discomfort or bloating
  • Diarrhoea

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

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 chest pain. These may indicate a serious gastrointestinal or cardiovascular event.

 

How Should You Store Feminax Express?

 

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

For general wellbeing support during your cycle, you might also want to explore our vitamins and supplements range, which includes options that may support hormonal balance and overall health.

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 online in the UK?

You can buy Feminax Express online from Cured Pharmacy, a UK GPhC-registered online pharmacy, for just £3.99. It is a Pharmacy (P) medicine, so it is available without a prescription from registered pharmacies. You can also find it in most UK high-street pharmacies and larger supermarkets.

How does Feminax Express work in the body?

Feminax Express contains ibuprofen lysine, an NSAID that works by blocking the COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes responsible for producing prostaglandins — the chemicals that trigger uterine contractions and period pain. By reducing prostaglandin levels, it helps ease cramping, lower back pain, and pelvic discomfort. The lysine salt form means it is absorbed more quickly than standard ibuprofen tablets.

How quickly does Feminax Express start working?

Because Feminax Express uses ibuprofen in its lysine salt form, it is absorbed faster than conventional ibuprofen tablets. Many women report noticing relief within 15 to 30 minutes of taking their first dose. Individual response times can vary depending on factors such as whether you've eaten recently and your personal metabolism.

What is the correct dose of Feminax Express for adults?

For women and girls aged 12 and over, the recommended starting dose is 2 tablets (684mg ibuprofen lysine) taken at the onset of pain. You can then take 1 to 2 tablets every 4 to 6 hours as needed, but you must not exceed 6 tablets in any 24-hour period. Always read the patient information leaflet before use.

Can I take Feminax Express with paracetamol?

Yes, Feminax Express can generally be taken alongside paracetamol, as they work through different mechanisms and do not interact with each other. However, you should not take it with other NSAIDs such as aspirin or naproxen, as this significantly increases the risk of gastrointestinal side effects. Always check with your pharmacist if you are unsure about combining medicines.

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 a history of peptic ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, severe kidney disease, severe liver disease, or heart failure. It should also be avoided during the third trimester of pregnancy and is not recommended for girls under 12. If you have any of these conditions, speak to your GP before taking any NSAID.

Can I take Feminax Express during pregnancy?

Feminax Express should not be taken during the third trimester of pregnancy, as ibuprofen can cause complications for the baby, including premature closure of the ductus arteriosus. 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, always consult your GP or midwife before taking any NSAID.

What are the side effects of Feminax Express?

Common side effects include nausea, indigestion, stomach discomfort, and diarrhoea. Less commonly, some people experience headache, dizziness, skin rash, or mild fluid retention. Serious side effects such as gastrointestinal bleeding or allergic reactions are rare but require immediate medical attention — stop taking the tablets and seek help if you notice black stools, vomiting blood, or facial swelling.

How do I manage side effects of Feminax Express?

Taking Feminax Express with food or a glass of milk can help reduce the likelihood of stomach upset and indigestion. If you experience persistent nausea or abdominal discomfort, stop taking the tablets and speak to your pharmacist. For mild headache or dizziness, resting and staying hydrated usually helps, but if symptoms are severe or prolonged, seek medical advice promptly.

What happens if I miss a dose of Feminax Express?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember — unless your next scheduled dose is due within a couple of hours, in which case skip the missed dose entirely. Never take a double dose to make up for a missed one, as this increases the risk of side effects. Feminax Express is taken as needed for pain relief, so strict timing is less critical than with daily prescription medicines.

How long can I take Feminax Express for?

Feminax Express is intended for short-term use only — typically for the duration of your period, which is usually 3 to 5 days. If your pain persists beyond 3 days, worsens, or is not adequately controlled, you should speak to your GP rather than continuing to self-medicate. Long-term use of NSAIDs without medical supervision carries risks including gastrointestinal and cardiovascular complications.

What are the alternatives to Feminax Express for period pain?

Alternatives include standard ibuprofen tablets, naproxen (available OTC as Feminax Ultra), and paracetamol for milder pain. Heat therapy — such as a hot water bottle applied to the lower abdomen — is also recommended by the NHS as a non-pharmacological option. You can browse our pain relief collection for a wider range of options suited to different needs.

Is Feminax Express suitable for teenagers?

Yes, Feminax Express is licensed for use in girls aged 12 and over, making it suitable for teenagers experiencing period pain. The dosage is the same as for adults — 2 tablets initially, then 1 to 2 tablets every 4 to 6 hours as needed, not exceeding 6 tablets in 24 hours. It should not be given to children under 12 years of age.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Feminax Express?

It is advisable to avoid or limit alcohol while taking Feminax Express, as alcohol can increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects such as stomach irritation and bleeding when combined with NSAIDs. Even moderate alcohol consumption can exacerbate ibuprofen-related stomach upset. If you do drink, keep it to a minimum and monitor for any unusual symptoms.

What are the latest studies on ibuprofen lysine for period pain?

Clinical evidence consistently supports ibuprofen as one of the most effective OTC treatments for primary dysmenorrhoea, with NSAIDs shown to be significantly more effective than paracetamol for menstrual pain in multiple systematic reviews. The lysine salt formulation has been demonstrated to achieve faster peak plasma concentrations compared to standard ibuprofen, supporting its use when rapid onset is needed. For the most current guidance, the NHS and NICE both recommend NSAIDs as a first-line treatment for period pain. You can also explore our women's health range for complementary products.

How Should You Use Feminax Express?

Feminax Express is straightforward to use, but following the correct steps ensures you get the most from each dose while minimising the risk of side effects. Always swallow the tablets whole — do not crush or chew them. Taking them with food or a glass of milk is strongly recommended, as this helps protect the stomach lining from irritation.

Follow these steps each time you take Feminax Express:

What Is the Correct Dose of Feminax Express?

The dosage for Feminax Express is based on age and is clearly defined in the patient information leaflet. It is not suitable for children under 12 years of age. Always use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time necessary to control your symptoms.

When Is the Best Time to Use Feminax Express?

For best results, take Feminax Express at the very first sign of period pain rather than waiting until the pain becomes severe. NSAIDs like ibuprofen lysine are generally more effective when taken early, before prostaglandin levels peak. Some women find it helpful to take the first dose with breakfast on the first day of their period if they know from experience that pain typically begins then.

Avoid taking Feminax Express on an empty stomach wherever possible, as this increases the likelihood of gastrointestinal discomfort. If you are taking it later in the day, spacing doses evenly across waking hours helps maintain consistent pain relief.

How Long Can You Use Feminax Express For?

Feminax Express is intended for short-term use only. You should use it for the duration of your period — typically no more than 3 to 5 days per cycle. If your period pain is not adequately controlled after 3 days of use, or if your symptoms are getting worse rather than better, stop taking the tablets and speak to your GP.

Prolonged or frequent use of NSAIDs without medical supervision is not recommended, as it carries risks including gastrointestinal ulceration and cardiovascular effects. If you find yourself needing pain relief every month for extended periods, it is worth discussing this with your doctor, as there may be an underlying cause such as endometriosis that warrants investigation.

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

Customer Reviews

Be the first to write a review
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Feminax Express?

Like all NSAIDs, Feminax Express can cause side effects in some people, though many women tolerate it well when taken as directed. The most frequently reported side effects relate to the gastrointestinal tract, particularly when the tablets are taken without food.

  • Nausea or feeling sick
  • Indigestion or heartburn
  • Stomach pain or abdominal discomfort
  • Diarrhoea
  • Bloating or flatulence

Taking Feminax Express with food or milk significantly reduces the risk of these effects. If stomach upset is persistent, speak to your pharmacist — they may suggest a suitable antacid or alternative pain relief option.

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Feminax Express?

Less commonly, some women experience side effects that are not directly related to the stomach. These are generally mild and resolve once you stop taking the medicine, but they are worth being aware of.

  • Headache or dizziness
  • Skin rash or itching
  • Mild fluid retention (swollen ankles or feet)
  • Raised blood pressure
  • Fatigue or drowsiness

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Feminax Express?

Serious side effects from Feminax Express are rare, particularly with short-term use at the recommended dose. However, you should be aware of the warning signs that require immediate medical attention. Stop taking the tablets straight away and seek urgent help if you notice any of the following:

  • Black, tarry, or blood-streaked stools — this may indicate gastrointestinal bleeding
  • Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
  • Severe stomach pain
  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (signs of a serious allergic reaction, known as anaphylaxis)
  • Difficulty breathing or wheezing
  • Chest pain or tightness
  • Sudden worsening of kidney function (reduced urination, swelling)

Can Feminax Express Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes — ibuprofen lysine can interact with a number of commonly used medicines, and some of these interactions can be clinically significant. Always tell your pharmacist or GP about everything you are taking, including over-the-counter products and herbal remedies. Key interactions include anticoagulants such as warfarin (increased bleeding risk), SSRIs such as fluoxetine (increased gastrointestinal bleeding risk), antihypertensives including ACE inhibitors and diuretics (reduced blood pressure-lowering effect), and other NSAIDs or aspirin (compounded side effect risk). Ibuprofen may also raise plasma levels of lithium and methotrexate to potentially harmful levels.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects of Feminax Express?

For mild side effects such as nausea or indigestion, try taking the tablets with food and plenty of water. If side effects are troublesome or do not settle within a day or two, stop taking Feminax Express and speak to your pharmacist. They can advise on whether an alternative pain relief option might be more suitable for you.

You can report suspected side effects of any medicine in the UK directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk. This helps improve medicine safety for everyone.

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

We’re a safe and
regulated UK service

Registered Pharmacy Badge

Lowest Price Guarantee

We're convinced you won't find your treatment cheaper, but if you do we'll refund the difference.

Find out more

100% discreet packaging

We're convinced you won't find your treatment cheaper, but if you do we'll refund the difference.

Find out more

Agent

Need help?
Talk to our friendly experts now

How our service works

Service Setup

Service setup

Discreet Packaging

Discreet packaging

Express Delivery

Express delivery