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Ibuprofen 400mg Tablets - 96 Tablets (Brand May Differ)

Ibuprofen 400mg Tablets - 96 Tablets (Brand May Differ)

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What Are Ibuprofen 400mg Tablets Used For?

 

If you are dealing with a throbbing headache, nagging back pain, or the kind of period pain that stops you in your tracks, ibuprofen 400mg tablets are one of the most widely used over-the-counter options available in the UK. This 96-tablet pack gives you a generous supply at home, so you are not caught short when pain strikes. Ibuprofen belongs to a class of medicines called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and it works on pain, inflammation, and fever all at once. You can browse our full pain relief collection if you are looking for additional options alongside this product.

Ibuprofen 400mg tablets are suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over. They are used to treat a wide range of everyday conditions — from tension headaches and migraines to dental pain, muscle soreness, and the aches that come with colds and flu. The NHS recognises ibuprofen as a first-line treatment for many of these conditions, making it a trusted staple in most medicine cabinets.

 

How Do Ibuprofen 400mg Tablets Work?

 

Ibuprofen works by inhibiting two enzymes — cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). These enzymes are responsible for producing prostaglandins, which are chemical messengers that trigger pain, swelling, and fever in the body. By blocking their production, ibuprofen reduces the sensation of pain and brings down inflammation at the source.

  • Blocks COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes to reduce prostaglandin synthesis
  • Lowers inflammation in affected tissues
  • Reduces fever by acting on the hypothalamus in the brain
  • Provides analgesic (pain-relieving) effects within 20–30 minutes of ingestion

Because it targets inflammation directly, ibuprofen is particularly effective for conditions where swelling plays a role — such as joint pain, muscle injuries, and menstrual cramps. This sets it apart from paracetamol, which relieves pain and fever but has no meaningful anti-inflammatory action.

 

Who Is Ibuprofen 400mg Suitable For?

 

Ibuprofen 400mg tablets are appropriate for most adults and adolescents aged 12 and over who need short-term relief from mild to moderate pain or fever. They are not suitable for everyone, though — and it is important to check before you start. People with certain health conditions or taking specific medicines should seek advice from a pharmacist or GP first.

  • Adults aged 18 and over with headaches, migraines, or dental pain
  • People experiencing period pain, back pain, or muscle aches
  • Those with cold or flu symptoms including fever and body aches
  • Individuals with joint pain or neuralgia needing short-term relief

 

How Do Ibuprofen 400mg Tablets Compare to Paracetamol?

 

Feature Ibuprofen 400mg Tablets Paracetamol 500mg Tablets
Drug class NSAID Analgesic / antipyretic
Anti-inflammatory action Yes No
Suitable for stomach-sensitive patients Take with food; caution advised Generally well tolerated
Suitable for period pain Yes — first-line choice Less effective for inflammatory pain
Suitable in pregnancy (third trimester) No — avoid Yes — preferred option

 

How Should You Store Ibuprofen 400mg Tablets?

 

Store your ibuprofen 400mg tablets below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep them in their original packaging so you can always check the expiry date and batch information. Bathrooms and kitchen windowsills are not ideal storage spots — temperature and humidity fluctuations can affect tablet integrity over time.

Always keep medicines out of the sight and reach of children. Do not use tablets past their expiry date, and do not dispose of them via household waste or down the sink — your local pharmacy can accept unwanted medicines for safe disposal. If you are managing multiple conditions, our cold and flu collection includes complementary products that may be used alongside ibuprofen where appropriate.

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.

Ibuprofen 400mg Tablets - 96 Tablets specifications
Treatment category Pain relief, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic
Active ingredient Ibuprofen 400mg
Mechanism of action COX-1 and COX-2 enzyme inhibitor (NSAID)
Effective for Headaches, migraines, period pain, back pain, muscle pain, joint pain, fever, dental pain, neuralgia
Suitable for Adults and adolescents aged 12 and over
Pack size 96 tablets
Strength 400mg
UK classification Pharmacy (P) medicine
Drug class Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
Preparation Film-coated tablet
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Ibuprofen 400mg Tablets - 96 Tablets

 

What Is Ibuprofen 400mg and What Is It Used For?

 

Ibuprofen 400mg tablets are an over-the-counter NSAID used to relieve mild to moderate pain and reduce fever in adults and young people aged 12 and over. They are indicated for a broad range of conditions including headaches, migraines, period pain, dental pain, back pain, muscle aches, joint pain, neuralgia, and the symptoms of colds and flu. Ibuprofen is one of the most commonly recommended pain relievers in the UK, listed on the NHS as a standard treatment for many of these conditions.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Ibuprofen 400mg Tablets?

 

Before taking ibuprofen, it is important to check whether it is appropriate for you. Do not take these tablets if any of the following apply:

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

Speak to your pharmacist or GP before taking ibuprofen if you have asthma, high blood pressure, a history of heart disease, inflammatory bowel disease, or if you are in the first or second trimester of pregnancy. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time necessary.

The following medicines may interact with ibuprofen — always check with your pharmacist if you are taking any of these:

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

 

How Should You Use Ibuprofen 400mg Tablets?

 

Always take ibuprofen exactly as directed on the label or as advised by your pharmacist. Taking it with food, milk, or a full glass of water helps protect the stomach lining and reduces the risk of indigestion. Never crush or chew the tablets — swallow them whole.

  1. Check you are not allergic to ibuprofen or other NSAIDs before taking
  2. Take one 400mg tablet with food or a full glass of water
  3. Wait at least 4–6 hours before taking another dose
  4. Do not exceed 3 tablets (1,200mg) in any 24-hour period unless directed by a doctor
  5. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time needed
  6. If symptoms persist beyond 3 days for fever or 10 days for pain, seek medical advice
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Headache / migraine Adults (18+) 400mg (1 tablet) Up to 3 times daily, min. 4–6 hrs apart
Period pain Adults (18+) 400mg (1 tablet) Up to 3 times daily, min. 4–6 hrs apart
Back / muscle pain Adults (18+) 400mg (1 tablet) Up to 3 times daily, min. 4–6 hrs apart
Fever / cold & flu Adults (18+) 400mg (1 tablet) Up to 3 times daily, min. 4–6 hrs apart
Pain relief Adolescents (12–17) 400mg (1 tablet) Up to 3 times daily — seek pharmacist advice

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Ibuprofen 400mg Tablets?

 

Like all medicines, ibuprofen can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. If you are managing multiple symptoms — for example, pain alongside hay fever — it is worth checking our allergy and hay fever collection to ensure any additional products you use are compatible with ibuprofen.

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

  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Indigestion or heartburn
  • Stomach pain or discomfort
  • Diarrhoea or constipation
  • Headache or dizziness

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

  • Fluid retention (swollen ankles or feet)
  • Raised blood pressure
  • Skin rash or itching
  • Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
  • Fatigue or drowsiness
  • Worsening of asthma symptoms (bronchospasm)

Stop taking ibuprofen and seek immediate medical attention if you experience black or tarry stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, chest pain, sudden shortness of breath, or signs of a severe allergic reaction such as facial swelling or difficulty breathing. These may indicate serious gastrointestinal bleeding or a cardiovascular event.

 

How Should You Store Ibuprofen 400mg Tablets?

 

  • Store below 25°C in a dry place away from direct sunlight
  • Keep in the original packaging to protect from moisture
  • Do not store in a bathroom or near a kitchen 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

If you are looking for complementary products to support your overall wellbeing alongside pain management, our vitamins and supplements collection includes options that may support general 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 ibuprofen 400mg tablets online in the UK?

You can buy ibuprofen 400mg tablets online in the UK from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered online pharmacy. The 96-tablet pack is available for £7.39 and is dispatched quickly to your door. It is a Pharmacy (P) medicine, so it is available without a prescription but is sold under pharmacist supervision.

How does ibuprofen work in the body?

Ibuprofen works by blocking COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, which are responsible for producing prostaglandins — the chemicals that cause pain, inflammation, and fever. By reducing prostaglandin levels, ibuprofen relieves pain at the source rather than simply masking it. This anti-inflammatory action makes it particularly useful for conditions like period pain, joint pain, and muscle injuries.

How do I take ibuprofen 400mg tablets step by step?
  1. Check you have no contraindications (allergy to NSAIDs, peptic ulcer, severe kidney or liver disease)
  2. Take one 400mg tablet with food or a full glass of water
  3. Wait at least 4–6 hours before taking another dose
  4. Do not take more than 3 tablets (1,200mg) in 24 hours
  5. If symptoms persist beyond 3 days (fever) or 10 days (pain), see your GP

Always read the label before use and speak to your pharmacist if you are unsure.

What is the correct dose of ibuprofen 400mg for adults?

The standard adult dose is one 400mg tablet taken up to three times daily, with doses spaced at least 4–6 hours apart. The maximum dose is 1,200mg (three tablets) in any 24-hour period for self-medication. Higher doses are sometimes prescribed by doctors but should not be taken without medical supervision.

When is the best time to take ibuprofen 400mg tablets?

Ibuprofen is most effective when taken at the first sign of pain or fever, rather than waiting until symptoms become severe. Always take it with food or milk to reduce the risk of stomach irritation. For period pain, some people find starting ibuprofen a day before their period begins helps manage symptoms more effectively — speak to your pharmacist for personalised advice.

What are the common side effects of ibuprofen 400mg tablets?

The most common side effects include:

  • Nausea or stomach upset
  • Indigestion or heartburn
  • Diarrhoea or constipation
  • Headache or dizziness

Taking ibuprofen with food significantly reduces the risk of stomach-related side effects. If you experience severe stomach pain, black stools, or vomiting blood, stop taking it immediately and seek urgent medical attention.

How do I manage side effects of ibuprofen 400mg?

The most effective way to reduce stomach-related side effects is to always take ibuprofen with food or a full glass of milk. If indigestion is a persistent problem, your pharmacist may recommend taking a stomach-protecting medicine alongside it. Never exceed the recommended dose, and use ibuprofen for the shortest time necessary to manage your symptoms.

Who should not take ibuprofen 400mg tablets?

Ibuprofen is not suitable for everyone. Do not take it if you:

  • Are allergic to ibuprofen, aspirin, or other NSAIDs
  • Have or have had a peptic ulcer or gastrointestinal bleeding
  • Have severe heart failure, kidney disease, or liver disease
  • Are in the third trimester of pregnancy
  • Are under 12 years of age

Always speak to your pharmacist or GP if you are unsure whether ibuprofen is right for you.

Can I take ibuprofen 400mg if I am pregnant?

Ibuprofen should be avoided during the third trimester of pregnancy (from 28 weeks onwards) as it can harm the unborn baby. During the first and second trimesters, it should only be used on the advice of a doctor. Paracetamol is generally considered the preferred pain reliever during pregnancy — always consult your midwife or GP before taking any medicine while pregnant.

What happens if I miss a dose of ibuprofen?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember — unless it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose, in which case skip the missed one entirely. Never take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose. Ibuprofen is typically taken as needed for pain or fever rather than on a strict schedule, so missing a dose is rarely a concern.

Can I take ibuprofen 400mg with paracetamol?

Yes — ibuprofen and paracetamol can generally be taken together as they work via different mechanisms and do not interact with each other. This combination is sometimes recommended by healthcare professionals for more effective pain relief. However, always follow the recommended doses for each medicine separately and do not exceed the stated maximum for either.

What are the alternatives to ibuprofen 400mg tablets?

Common alternatives include paracetamol (suitable for those who cannot tolerate NSAIDs), aspirin (not suitable for under-16s or those with certain conditions), and naproxen (a longer-acting NSAID available on prescription or OTC in lower doses). You can explore our pain relief collection for a range of options. Always speak to your pharmacist to find the most appropriate choice for your specific condition.

How long can you take ibuprofen 400mg tablets for?

For self-medication, ibuprofen should be used for the shortest time necessary — generally no more than 3 days for fever and no more than 10 days for pain without seeking medical advice. Long-term use increases the risk of gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and renal side effects. If you need pain relief for longer than this, speak to your GP about a more suitable long-term management plan.

Is ibuprofen 400mg effective for period pain?

Yes — ibuprofen is considered one of the most effective over-the-counter treatments for period pain (dysmenorrhoea) because it reduces the prostaglandins responsible for uterine cramping. It is often more effective for period pain than paracetamol due to its anti-inflammatory action. If your period pain is severe or not responding to ibuprofen, speak to your GP as there may be an underlying cause such as endometriosis. You can also explore our women's health collection for additional support products.

What are the latest studies on ibuprofen for headache and migraine?

Ibuprofen remains one of the most studied and recommended OTC treatments for tension-type headaches and migraines. Clinical evidence consistently supports its effectiveness when taken at the onset of symptoms. The NHS recommends ibuprofen as a first-line option for migraine relief, and it continues to be included in national and international headache management guidelines. If migraines are frequent, recurrent, or disabling, a GP referral for specialist assessment is advisable.

How Should You Use Ibuprofen 400mg Tablets?

Always swallow ibuprofen 400mg tablets whole with a full glass of water — do not crush or chew them. Taking them with food or milk is strongly recommended to protect the stomach lining and reduce the risk of indigestion or nausea.

Follow these steps each time you take a dose:

What Is the Correct Dose of Ibuprofen 400mg Tablets?

The correct dose depends on your age and the condition being treated. For most adults, one 400mg tablet up to three times daily is sufficient for effective pain relief or fever reduction. Always use the lowest dose that controls your symptoms.

When Is the Best Time to Use Ibuprofen 400mg Tablets?

Ibuprofen works most effectively when taken at the earliest sign of pain or fever, before symptoms escalate. For period pain in particular, starting ibuprofen a day before your period is due — if your cycle is predictable — may help manage cramping more effectively from the outset.

If you are taking ibuprofen for a recurring condition such as back pain or joint pain, try to space doses evenly throughout the day and always take them with meals to protect your stomach. Avoid taking ibuprofen on an empty stomach, especially first thing in the morning.

How Long Can You Use Ibuprofen 400mg Tablets For?

For self-treatment, ibuprofen should be used for the shortest time necessary. The NHS advises using it for no more than 3 days to treat a fever and no more than 10 days for pain relief without seeking medical advice. Using ibuprofen for longer than recommended increases the risk of gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and kidney-related side effects.

If your symptoms persist beyond these timeframes, worsen, or keep returning, it is important to speak to your GP rather than continuing to self-medicate. Long-term pain management should always be supervised by a healthcare professional.

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

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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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