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Nurofen Cold & Flu Relief 200mg/5mg – 16 Tablets

Nurofen Cold & Flu Relief 200mg/5mg – 16 Tablets

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  • ✔️ Targets blocked nose, headache, fever and sore throat simultaneously
  • ✔️ Contains ibuprofen 200mg plus pseudoephedrine 5mg per tablet
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over
  • ✔️ Reduces nasal congestion by constricting swollen nasal blood vessels
  • ✔️ Convenient 16-tablet pack for short-term cold and flu relief

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What Are Nurofen Cold and Flu Tablets and How Do They Help?

 

When a cold or flu hits, it rarely comes with just one symptom. You might be dealing with a pounding headache, a blocked nose, a sore throat, and a fever all at once — and that's exactly where Nurofen Cold and Flu tablets are designed to step in. Each tablet contains two active ingredients: ibuprofen 200mg and pseudoephedrine hydrochloride 5mg. Together, they target both the pain and inflammation of cold and flu symptoms and the nasal congestion that makes breathing so uncomfortable. If you're looking for broader symptom relief from a single tablet, this combination approach can make a real difference to how you feel day to day. You can browse the full range of options in our cold and flu collection.

This is an over-the-counter (OTC) medicine, meaning you don't need a prescription to buy it. It comes in a pack of 16 tablets, making it a practical option to keep at home during the colder months. That said, it's still a medicine — and like all medicines, it needs to be used correctly and only by those for whom it's appropriate.

 

How Do Nurofen Cold and Flu Tablets Work in the Body?

 

The two active ingredients work through distinct but complementary mechanisms:

  • Ibuprofen 200mg — a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, reducing the production of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are chemical messengers responsible for triggering pain, fever, and inflammation. By reducing them, ibuprofen helps ease headache, sore throat pain, and raised temperature.
  • Pseudoephedrine hydrochloride 5mg — a sympathomimetic decongestant that acts on alpha-adrenergic receptors in the nasal mucosa. This causes vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels) in the nasal lining, reducing swelling and congestion so you can breathe more freely.
  • Together, these two ingredients address both the inflammatory and the congestive components of cold and flu, rather than just one or the other.

It's worth noting that neither ingredient treats the underlying viral infection itself — they manage symptoms while your immune system does the work of fighting the virus.

 

Who Is Nurofen Cold and Flu Relief Suitable For?

 

These tablets are intended for adults and young people aged 12 and over who are experiencing cold or flu symptoms. They're particularly useful when you have a combination of symptoms rather than just one. That said, they're not right for everyone.

This product may be suitable for you if:

  • You are aged 12 or over and are not pregnant or breastfeeding
  • You have a blocked nose alongside pain, fever, or sore throat
  • You have no history of peptic ulcers, kidney disease, liver disease, or heart problems
  • You are not currently taking MAO inhibitors, other NSAIDs, or antihypertensive medicines

If you're unsure whether this product is right for you, speak to your pharmacist before purchasing. They can help you weigh up the options — including alternatives from our pain relief range if a simpler formulation is more appropriate.

 

How Does Nurofen Cold and Flu Compare to Plain Ibuprofen Tablets?

 

Feature Nurofen Cold & Flu 200mg/5mg Plain Ibuprofen 200mg
Active ingredients Ibuprofen + Pseudoephedrine Ibuprofen only
Relieves nasal congestion Yes No
Reduces fever and pain Yes Yes
Suitable for high blood pressure No — pseudoephedrine is contraindicated Use with caution — check with pharmacist
Minimum age 12 years 12 years (standard OTC dose)

 

How Should You Store Nurofen Cold and Flu Tablets?

 

Store your Nurofen Cold and Flu 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 the patient information leaflet. As with all medicines, keep them out of the reach and sight of children.

Do not use the tablets after the expiry date printed on the pack. If you have unused or out-of-date tablets, return them to your local pharmacy for safe disposal — do not flush them down the toilet or throw them in household waste.

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.

Nurofen Cold & Flu Relief 200mg/5mg – 16 Tablets specifications
Treatment category Cold and flu symptom relief
Mechanism of action NSAID (ibuprofen) + sympathomimetic decongestant (pseudoephedrine)
Effective for Headache, fever, sore throat, nasal congestion associated with cold and flu
Suitable for Adults and young people aged 12 and over
Active ingredient Ibuprofen 200mg, Pseudoephedrine hydrochloride 5mg
Pack size 16 tablets
Strengths 200mg ibuprofen / 5mg pseudoephedrine hydrochloride per tablet
UK classification Pharmacy (P) medicine
Drug class NSAID + sympathomimetic amine
Preparation Film-coated tablet
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Nurofen Cold & Flu Relief 200mg/5mg – 16 Tablets

 

What Is Nurofen Cold and Flu Relief and What Is It Used For?

 

Nurofen Cold and Flu Relief 200mg/5mg tablets are a combination medicine used to relieve the symptoms of colds and flu in adults and young people aged 12 and over. The two active ingredients — ibuprofen and pseudoephedrine hydrochloride — work together to reduce pain, lower fever, ease sore throat discomfort, and clear a blocked nose. This makes it particularly useful when you're dealing with multiple symptoms at the same time, rather than just one isolated complaint.

It is classified as a Pharmacy (P) medicine in the UK, meaning it can be sold without a prescription but only through a registered pharmacy. It does not treat the cold or flu virus itself — it manages the symptoms while your body recovers naturally.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Nurofen Cold and Flu Relief?

 

Do not take these tablets if any of the following apply to you:

  • You are allergic to ibuprofen, pseudoephedrine, aspirin, or any other NSAID
  • You have or have had a peptic ulcer, stomach bleeding, or gastrointestinal perforation
  • You have severe heart failure, kidney disease, or liver disease
  • You have high blood pressure (hypertension) or cardiovascular disease
  • You have hyperthyroidism, diabetes, or closed-angle glaucoma
  • You are pregnant (especially in the third trimester) or breastfeeding
  • You are under 12 years of age
  • You have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) in the last 14 days

Be aware of the following drug interactions before taking this medicine:

  • MAO inhibitors — risk of hypertensive crisis; do not combine
  • Other NSAIDs or aspirin — increased risk of gastrointestinal side effects
  • Antihypertensive medicines — pseudoephedrine may reduce their effectiveness
  • Anticoagulants such as warfarin — ibuprofen may increase bleeding risk
  • Lithium — ibuprofen may increase lithium plasma levels
  • Tricyclic antidepressants — may enhance the cardiovascular effects of pseudoephedrine
  • Digoxin — ibuprofen may affect cardiac glycoside levels

Always tell your pharmacist about all medicines you are currently taking, including herbal remedies and supplements. If you're supporting your recovery with vitamins, you can explore our vitamins and supplements range for immune-supporting options.

 

How Should You Use Nurofen Cold and Flu Relief Tablets?

 

  1. Read the patient information leaflet inside the pack before taking any tablets.
  2. Swallow the tablets whole with a full glass of water.
  3. Take with or after food to reduce the risk of stomach upset.
  4. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time necessary.
  5. Leave at least 4 hours between doses.
  6. Do not exceed 6 tablets in any 24-hour period.
  7. Do not use for more than 3 days without consulting a doctor or pharmacist.
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Cold and flu symptom relief Adults and young people aged 12+ 2 tablets Up to 3 times daily (every 4–6 hours)
Cold and flu symptom relief Under 12 years Not suitable Do not use

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Nurofen Cold and Flu Relief?

 

Like all medicines, Nurofen Cold and Flu Relief can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Knowing what to look out for helps you use this medicine safely.

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

  • Nausea or stomach discomfort
  • Dizziness or light-headedness
  • Headache
  • Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)
  • Dry mouth

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

  • Palpitations or increased heart rate
  • Raised blood pressure
  • Skin rash or itching
  • Gastrointestinal bleeding (seek immediate medical attention if you notice blood in stools or vomit)
  • Urinary retention (particularly in men with prostate problems)
  • Anxiety or restlessness

Stop taking the tablets and seek medical advice immediately if you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling of the face or throat, or any signs of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). If you're also managing symptoms affecting your ears, nose, or throat, our ear, nose and throat range may offer additional support products.

 

How Should You Store Nurofen Cold and Flu Relief Tablets?

 

  • Store below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct heat and sunlight
  • Keep in the original blister packaging until ready to use
  • Do not store in a bathroom or near a sink — moisture can degrade the tablets
  • Keep out of the reach and sight of children at all times
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
  • Return unused or expired tablets to your local pharmacy for safe disposal

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 Nurofen Cold and Flu tablets online in the UK?

You can buy Nurofen Cold and Flu tablets online from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy. They are available without a prescription as an over-the-counter Pharmacy (P) medicine. Browse our full cold and flu range for additional options to support your recovery.

How do Nurofen Cold and Flu tablets work in the body?

Ibuprofen inhibits COX enzymes to reduce prostaglandin production, which lowers fever, eases pain, and reduces inflammation. Pseudoephedrine acts as a nasal decongestant by constricting blood vessels in the nasal lining, reducing swelling and improving airflow. Together, they address multiple cold and flu symptoms simultaneously rather than just one.

What is the correct dose of Nurofen Cold and Flu tablets for adults?

Adults and young people aged 12 and over should take 2 tablets up to three times a day, leaving at least 4 hours between each dose. The maximum dose is 6 tablets in any 24-hour period. Do not exceed this amount, and do not use for more than 3 days without speaking to a doctor or pharmacist.

When is the best time to take Nurofen Cold and Flu tablets?

Take the tablets when your symptoms are at their most troublesome — many people find morning, midday, and early evening work well to maintain consistent symptom relief throughout the day. Always take them with or after food to reduce the chance of stomach irritation. Avoid taking a dose too close to bedtime, as pseudoephedrine can cause difficulty sleeping in some people.

Can I take Nurofen Cold and Flu tablets with other medicines?

Do not take these tablets alongside other NSAIDs, aspirin, MAO inhibitors, antihypertensive medicines, anticoagulants such as warfarin, or tricyclic antidepressants without first speaking to a pharmacist or doctor. Combining medicines without checking can increase the risk of serious side effects. Always disclose all medicines — including herbal remedies — to your pharmacist before starting a new product.

Who should not take Nurofen Cold and Flu tablets?

These tablets are not suitable for children under 12, people who are pregnant (especially in the third trimester) or breastfeeding, or those with high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney or liver problems, hyperthyroidism, glaucoma, or a history of peptic ulcers. Anyone who has taken an MAOI in the past 14 days must also avoid this product. If you're unsure, speak to your pharmacist before purchasing.

What are the side effects of Nurofen Cold and Flu tablets?

Common side effects include nausea, dizziness, headache, insomnia, and dry mouth. Less commonly, some people experience palpitations, raised blood pressure, skin rash, or urinary retention. Stop taking the tablets and seek immediate medical attention if you notice signs of a severe allergic reaction, gastrointestinal bleeding, or chest pain.

How do I manage side effects of Nurofen Cold and Flu tablets?

Taking the tablets with food can help reduce stomach discomfort and nausea. If you experience insomnia, try to avoid taking your last dose in the evening. For mild dizziness, sit or lie down until it passes and avoid driving. If side effects are persistent or severe, stop taking the tablets and consult your pharmacist or GP.

How long can I take Nurofen Cold and Flu tablets for?

These tablets should not be used for more than 3 consecutive days without consulting a doctor or pharmacist. They are intended for short-term symptom relief only. If your symptoms persist beyond 3 days, worsen, or are accompanied by a high fever, seek medical advice promptly as this may indicate a more serious condition.

What happens if I miss a dose of Nurofen Cold and Flu tablets?

If you miss a dose, simply take the next one when your symptoms return or when needed, making sure at least 4 hours have passed since your last dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. These tablets are taken as needed for symptom relief, not on a strict schedule like some prescription medicines.

Can I take Nurofen Cold and Flu tablets if I have high blood pressure?

No — this product is not recommended for people with high blood pressure (hypertension). Pseudoephedrine can raise blood pressure and may counteract the effect of antihypertensive medicines. Both ibuprofen and pseudoephedrine carry cardiovascular risks in this group. Speak to your GP or pharmacist about safer alternatives for cold and flu symptom relief.

Are Nurofen Cold and Flu tablets safe during pregnancy?

No — these tablets are not safe to take during pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester, as ibuprofen can cause serious harm to the unborn baby including premature closure of the ductus arteriosus. Pseudoephedrine is also not recommended during pregnancy. If you are pregnant and experiencing cold or flu symptoms, speak to your midwife or GP for safe treatment options.

What are the alternatives to Nurofen Cold and Flu tablets?

Alternatives include plain ibuprofen or paracetamol for pain and fever, or a separate nasal decongestant spray for congestion. Some people prefer a paracetamol-based cold and flu product if they cannot take ibuprofen. You can explore our ear, nose and throat range for decongestant nasal sprays and other symptom-specific options.

What are the latest studies on ibuprofen and pseudoephedrine for cold and flu?

Clinical evidence supports the use of ibuprofen for reducing fever and pain associated with upper respiratory tract infections, and pseudoephedrine is well-established as an effective oral nasal decongestant. The NHS recommends ibuprofen as one of the first-line options for managing cold and flu symptoms in adults. Combination products like this one are designed to offer convenience when multiple symptoms are present simultaneously.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Nurofen Cold and Flu tablets?

It is advisable to avoid alcohol while taking these tablets. Alcohol can increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects associated with ibuprofen, such as stomach bleeding and ulceration. It may also worsen dizziness caused by pseudoephedrine. The NHS advises caution with alcohol when taking NSAIDs, so it's best to wait until you have finished your course before drinking.

How Should You Use Nurofen Cold and Flu Relief Tablets?

Always read the patient information leaflet before taking this medicine. These tablets are for oral use only — swallow them whole with a full glass of water. Taking them with or after food helps to reduce the risk of stomach irritation, which is particularly important with ibuprofen-containing products.

Follow these steps each time you take a dose:

What Is the Correct Dose of Nurofen Cold and Flu Relief?

Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time needed to control your symptoms. Never exceed the maximum daily dose, and always leave adequate time between doses to avoid accidental overdose.

When Is the Best Time to Use Nurofen Cold and Flu Relief?

Take your first dose when symptoms begin — there's no benefit in waiting until they become severe. Many people find spacing doses across the morning, early afternoon, and early evening works well for consistent symptom control throughout the day.

Avoid taking a dose late in the evening if you can, as pseudoephedrine can interfere with sleep in some people. If you need overnight relief, speak to your pharmacist about whether a different formulation might be more appropriate for night-time use.

How Long Can You Use Nurofen Cold and Flu Relief For?

This medicine is intended for short-term use only. Do not take it for more than 3 consecutive days without consulting a doctor or pharmacist. Cold and flu symptoms typically begin to improve within a few days, but if yours are not improving — or are getting worse — you should seek medical advice rather than continuing to self-medicate.

Prolonged use of ibuprofen without medical supervision carries risks including gastrointestinal problems and kidney strain. If you find you need symptom relief for longer than 3 days, your GP can help identify whether there is an underlying cause that needs treatment.

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 Nurofen Cold and Flu Relief?

Most people tolerate Nurofen Cold and Flu Relief well when taken as directed, but some do experience side effects. The most common ones are linked to ibuprofen's effect on the stomach lining and pseudoephedrine's stimulant properties.

  • Nausea or stomach discomfort
  • Dizziness or light-headedness
  • Headache
  • Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)
  • Dry mouth
  • Mild indigestion or heartburn

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Nurofen Cold and Flu Relief?

Less frequently, some people may notice more noticeable effects — particularly those related to pseudoephedrine's cardiovascular and nervous system activity. These are worth being aware of, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions.

  • Palpitations or a noticeably faster heartbeat
  • Raised blood pressure
  • Anxiety, restlessness, or tremor
  • Skin rash or itching
  • Urinary retention (particularly in men with an enlarged prostate)
  • Vomiting
  • Fluid retention or ankle swelling

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Nurofen Cold and Flu Relief?

Serious side effects are uncommon but can occur. Stop taking the tablets immediately and seek urgent medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Signs of a severe allergic reaction — swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat; difficulty breathing; widespread skin rash
  • Gastrointestinal bleeding — black or tarry stools, vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
  • Chest pain, shortness of breath, or sudden weakness — which could indicate a cardiovascular event
  • Severe skin reactions such as blistering or peeling
  • Significant changes in urine output, which may suggest kidney problems

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

For mild side effects such as nausea or stomach discomfort, try taking the tablets with food and a full glass of water. If insomnia is a problem, avoid taking your last dose in the late evening. Mild dizziness usually passes quickly — sit or lie down until it resolves, and avoid driving or operating machinery until you feel well.

If side effects are persistent, worsening, or causing you concern, stop taking the tablets and speak to your pharmacist or GP. You can report suspected side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.

Can Nurofen Cold and Flu Relief Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes — this product has several clinically significant interactions. Ibuprofen can interact with anticoagulants (such as warfarin), other NSAIDs, lithium, digoxin, and certain antidepressants. Pseudoephedrine interacts with MAO inhibitors (risk of hypertensive crisis), antihypertensive medicines, and tricyclic antidepressants. Always tell your pharmacist about every medicine you are taking — including over-the-counter products and herbal supplements — before starting this treatment.

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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