Skip to product information
1 of 1

  • Images are for illustration purposes only

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

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

  • 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

  • ✔️ Relieves cold-related headache, fever, and body aches
  • ✔️ Pseudoephedrine clears blocked sinuses and nasal congestion
  • ✔️ Dual-action formula targets multiple cold symptoms simultaneously
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over
  • ✔️ Convenient 16-tablet pack for short-term cold symptom relief

Price Checker

Regular price £6.49
Sale price £6.49
Sale Sold out
  • Lowest price guarantee
  • Includes FREE private prescription
View full details

 

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

 

When a cold hits, it rarely arrives alone. Blocked sinuses, a pounding head, a rising temperature — it all lands at once. Nurofen Cold and Flu tablets are a dual-action over-the-counter medicine designed to tackle several of those symptoms together, rather than making you reach for multiple products. Each tablet contains two active ingredients: ibuprofen 200mg, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), and pseudoephedrine hydrochloride 30mg, a nasal decongestant. Together, they address both the inflammatory symptoms of a cold and the congestion that makes breathing feel like hard work. You can browse our full range of cold and flu treatments if you want to compare options before deciding.

This product is classified as a Pharmacy (P) medicine in the UK, meaning it is available without a prescription but must be sold under the supervision of a pharmacist. It comes in a pack of 16 tablets, making it a practical choice to keep at home during the colder months.

 

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

 

The two active ingredients work through distinct but complementary mechanisms. Understanding how they each contribute can help you feel more confident about what you are taking.

  • Ibuprofen (200mg): Inhibits cyclo-oxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2) enzymes, reducing the production of prostaglandins — the chemicals responsible for pain, fever, and inflammation. This helps relieve headache, sore throat pain, and raised temperature associated with colds.
  • Pseudoephedrine hydrochloride (30mg): Acts as a sympathomimetic amine, stimulating alpha-adrenergic receptors in the nasal mucosa. This causes vasoconstriction — narrowing of the blood vessels — which reduces swelling and mucus production in the nasal passages, easing that blocked, stuffy feeling.
  • Combined effect: By addressing both inflammation and congestion simultaneously, the tablets offer broader symptom relief than a single-ingredient product would.

It is worth noting that neither ingredient treats the underlying viral infection itself. They manage symptoms while your immune system does the work of fighting the cold.

 

Who Is Nurofen Cold and Flu Suitable For?

 

These tablets are intended for adults and young people aged 12 and over who are experiencing cold or flu symptoms. They are particularly useful when congestion is a prominent symptom alongside pain or fever. That said, they are not appropriate for everyone.

  • Adults aged 18 and over with cold symptoms including headache, fever, and nasal congestion
  • Young people aged 12–17 (under adult supervision, following age-appropriate dosing)
  • People who need multi-symptom relief without taking several separate medicines
  • Those without contraindications to ibuprofen or pseudoephedrine (see Section 2 for full details)

They are not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or people with certain cardiovascular or renal conditions. Always read the label carefully before use.

 

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

 

Feature Nurofen Cold & Flu 200mg/30mg 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 Use with caution — seek advice
UK classification Pharmacy (P) General Sale (GSL) at lower pack sizes

 

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 batch number. As with all medicines, store them out of the sight and reach of children.

Do not use the tablets after the expiry date printed on the pack. If you are unsure whether a medicine is still safe to use, your local pharmacist can advise you. If you need additional support for other symptoms that sometimes accompany a cold — such as sore, irritated eyes — you might find our ear, nose and throat range helpful alongside this product.

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 COX inhibition (ibuprofen); alpha-adrenergic vasoconstriction (pseudoephedrine)
Effective for Headache, fever, nasal congestion, sore throat, sinus pain
Suitable for Adults and young people aged 12 and over
Active ingredients Ibuprofen 200mg, Pseudoephedrine hydrochloride 30mg
Pack size 16 tablets
Strengths 200mg ibuprofen / 30mg pseudoephedrine hydrochloride per tablet
UK classification Pharmacy (P) medicine
Drug class NSAID + sympathomimetic decongestant
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/30mg tablets are an over-the-counter 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 fever, ease headache and body aches, and relieve nasal and sinus congestion. This makes them particularly useful when you are dealing with that heavy, blocked-up feeling that makes it hard to concentrate or sleep. They do not treat the viral infection itself, but they can make the experience considerably more manageable while your body recovers.

 

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

 

Before taking these tablets, it is important to check whether they are appropriate for you. The pseudoephedrine component in particular carries a number of important contraindications that go beyond those of standard ibuprofen products.

Do not take these tablets if you:

  • Are allergic to ibuprofen, pseudoephedrine, aspirin, or any other NSAID
  • Have or have had a stomach ulcer, gastrointestinal bleeding, or perforation
  • Have severe heart failure, kidney disease, or liver disease
  • Have high blood pressure (hypertension) or cardiovascular disease
  • Have hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
  • Have glaucoma or difficulty passing urine (urinary retention)
  • Are pregnant (especially from 20 weeks onwards) or breastfeeding
  • Are under 12 years of age
  • Are taking or have taken monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) within the last 14 days

Known drug interactions — tell your pharmacist if you are taking:

  • 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)
  • Tricyclic antidepressants or other sympathomimetics
  • Lithium (ibuprofen may increase lithium plasma levels)
  • Methotrexate (ibuprofen may increase toxicity)
  • Digoxin or cardiac glycosides

If you are managing other health conditions alongside a cold, you might also find it useful to explore our pain relief range for alternative options that may be more suitable for your circumstances.

 

How Should You Use Nurofen Cold and Flu Relief?

 

Always take these tablets exactly as directed on the label or as advised by your pharmacist. Swallow them whole with a full glass of water. Taking them with food or milk can help reduce the chance of stomach upset, which is a known consideration with ibuprofen-containing products.

  1. Check you are not allergic to any of the ingredients before taking your first dose.
  2. Take 2 tablets with a full glass of water.
  3. Take with food or milk if your stomach is sensitive.
  4. Leave at least 4 hours between doses.
  5. Do not take more than 3 doses (6 tablets) in any 24-hour period.
  6. Do not use for more than 3 days without speaking to a doctor or pharmacist.
Age Group Dose Frequency Maximum daily dose
Adults and young people aged 12+ 2 tablets Up to 3 times daily 6 tablets (600mg ibuprofen / 180mg pseudoephedrine)
Children under 12 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 experiences them. The pseudoephedrine component adds some additional risks compared to plain ibuprofen, so it is worth being aware of what to look out for.

Common side effects:

  • Nausea or stomach discomfort
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Difficulty sleeping (insomnia) — particularly with pseudoephedrine
  • Increased heart rate (palpitations)

Less common side effects:

  • Raised blood pressure
  • Dry mouth
  • Skin rash or itching
  • Gastrointestinal bleeding (seek immediate medical attention if you notice blood in your stool or vomit)
  • Anxiety or restlessness

Stop taking the tablets and seek medical advice immediately if you experience chest pain, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or any signs of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). These are rare but serious reactions that require urgent attention.

 

How Should You Store Nurofen Cold and Flu Relief?

 

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

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

If you are looking for additional support during cold and flu season — for instance, to help maintain your immune health — our vitamins and supplements range includes options that may complement your recovery.

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 from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy. They are available without a prescription but are classified as a Pharmacy (P) medicine, so they are sold under pharmacist supervision. Browse our full cold and flu range for more options.

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 on alpha-adrenergic receptors in the nasal lining, causing vasoconstriction that reduces swelling and mucus, relieving congestion. Together, they address multiple cold symptoms at once.

How do I take Nurofen Cold and Flu tablets step by step?

Take 2 tablets with a full glass of water, ideally with food or milk to protect your stomach. Leave at least 4 hours between doses and do not take more than 6 tablets in any 24-hour period. Do not use for more than 3 consecutive days without speaking to a pharmacist or doctor.

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

The standard adult dose is 2 tablets (ibuprofen 400mg / pseudoephedrine 60mg) taken up to three times daily. Always leave at least 4 hours between doses and never exceed 6 tablets in 24 hours. Young people aged 12–17 should follow the same dosing schedule under adult supervision.

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

Take them when your symptoms are at their most disruptive — many people find morning and early afternoon doses most helpful, as pseudoephedrine can cause difficulty sleeping if taken too close to bedtime. Taking them with food helps reduce the risk of stomach irritation. Space doses evenly throughout the day.

Can I take Nurofen Cold and Flu tablets with paracetamol?

Ibuprofen and paracetamol have different mechanisms and can generally be used together in adults when needed, but always check with your pharmacist first. Never take Nurofen Cold and Flu alongside other ibuprofen-containing or NSAID-containing products. Combining multiple decongestants is also not recommended.

What are the common side effects of Nurofen Cold and Flu tablets and how do I manage them?

Common side effects include nausea, stomach discomfort, headache, dizziness, and difficulty sleeping. Taking the tablets with food can help reduce stomach-related effects, and avoiding evening doses may reduce sleep disturbance caused by pseudoephedrine. If side effects are troublesome or persistent, stop taking the tablets and speak to your pharmacist.

Who should not take Nurofen Cold and Flu tablets?

These tablets are not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women (especially from 20 weeks), people with high blood pressure, heart disease, hyperthyroidism, glaucoma, or severe kidney or liver problems. Anyone taking MAOIs or other sympathomimetic medicines should also avoid them. Always check with a pharmacist if you are unsure.

Are Nurofen Cold and Flu tablets safe to take during pregnancy?

No — these tablets are not recommended during pregnancy. Ibuprofen is associated with risks to the unborn baby, particularly from 20 weeks of pregnancy onwards, and pseudoephedrine may affect blood flow. If you are pregnant and need cold symptom relief, speak to your GP or midwife before taking any medicine.

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

If you miss a dose, simply take the next one when it is due — do not double up to make up for a missed dose. These tablets are taken as needed for symptom relief rather than on a strict schedule, so missing one dose is unlikely to cause any problems. Just ensure you leave at least 4 hours between doses.

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

You should not take these tablets for more than 3 consecutive days without consulting a doctor or pharmacist. Cold symptoms that persist beyond this period may indicate a secondary infection or another condition that needs medical assessment. Prolonged use of ibuprofen without medical supervision is not recommended.

What are the alternatives to Nurofen Cold and Flu tablets?

Alternatives include paracetamol-based cold and flu remedies (such as Lemsip or Day Nurse), plain ibuprofen for pain and fever without the decongestant, or separate nasal decongestant sprays. You can explore our ear, nose and throat range for additional options. Your pharmacist can help you choose based on your specific symptoms and medical history.

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

No — these tablets are not recommended if you have high blood pressure (hypertension). Pseudoephedrine can raise blood pressure and may reduce the effectiveness of antihypertensive medicines. Ibuprofen can also affect blood pressure and kidney function. Speak to your GP or pharmacist about safer alternatives for cold symptom relief.

Is there any latest research on ibuprofen and pseudoephedrine for cold relief?

Ibuprofen is well-established for reducing fever and pain associated with colds, and pseudoephedrine remains one of the most clinically studied oral decongestants available. Current NHS guidance supports their use for short-term symptom relief in appropriate patients. No new safety signals have emerged that change the established guidance for healthy adults using these medicines as directed.

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 may also interact with pseudoephedrine to worsen dizziness or cardiovascular effects. Staying well hydrated with water is a better choice when you are unwell.

How Should You Use Nurofen Cold and Flu Relief?

Swallow the tablets whole with a full glass of water — do not crush or chew them. Taking them with food or milk is a good idea if your stomach tends to be sensitive, as ibuprofen can occasionally cause irritation on an empty stomach. Follow these steps each time you take a dose:

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

The dose for adults and young people aged 12 and over is 2 tablets per dose, up to three times daily. Never exceed the maximum daily dose, and always leave adequate time between doses to avoid accumulation of either active ingredient. The table below summarises dosing by indication and age group.

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

Take your first dose when symptoms begin to interfere with your daily activities or comfort. Many people find it helpful to take a dose in the morning and again in the early afternoon, avoiding a late evening dose where possible — pseudoephedrine can make it harder to fall asleep if taken too close to bedtime. If you wake during the night with significant symptoms, a dose is appropriate provided at least 4 hours have passed since your last one.

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

These tablets are intended for short-term use only. Do not take them for more than 3 consecutive days without speaking to a doctor or pharmacist. Most cold symptoms begin to improve within this window; if they do not, or if they worsen, you should seek medical advice as a secondary infection or another condition may be responsible. Long-term or frequent use of ibuprofen without medical supervision is not recommended and may increase the risk of gastrointestinal or cardiovascular side effects.

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 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 frequently reported ones relate to both the ibuprofen and pseudoephedrine components. Taking the tablets with food and water can help reduce the likelihood of stomach-related effects.

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

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

Less commonly, some people may experience more noticeable effects, particularly related to the pseudoephedrine component. These are more likely in people who are sensitive to stimulant-type medicines or who take a higher dose than recommended.

  • Raised blood pressure
  • Anxiety or restlessness
  • Skin rash or itching
  • Indigestion or heartburn
  • Urinary retention (difficulty passing urine)
  • Tremor or nervousness

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

Serious side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention if they occur. Ibuprofen, like all NSAIDs, carries a risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, particularly with prolonged use or in people with a history of stomach ulcers. Stop taking the tablets and seek urgent help if you notice any of the following:

  • Blood in your stool or vomit, or black tarry stools (signs of gastrointestinal bleeding)
  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (signs of a severe allergic reaction)
  • Difficulty breathing or chest tightness
  • Severe chest pain or irregular heartbeat
  • Sudden worsening of kidney function (reduced urination, swelling in legs)

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

If you notice mild side effects such as nausea or difficulty sleeping, try adjusting when you take your dose — for example, taking it with food or avoiding evening doses. If side effects are persistent, worsening, or causing you concern, stop taking the tablets and speak to your pharmacist or GP. You should not continue taking a medicine that is making you feel unwell without seeking advice first.

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), increasing bleeding risk, and may reduce the effectiveness of antihypertensive medicines. Pseudoephedrine must not be taken with MAOIs or within 14 days of stopping them, as this combination can cause a dangerous rise in blood pressure. Always tell your pharmacist about every medicine, supplement, or herbal remedy you are taking before starting this product. If you are managing multiple conditions, a pharmacist can help you identify any potential interactions safely.

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