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Nurofen For Children Soft Chews - 12 Chewable Capsules

Nurofen For Children Soft Chews - 12 Chewable Capsules

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  • ✔️ Relieves children's pain and fever from age 7
  • ✔️ Each chew contains 100mg ibuprofen for accurate dosing
  • ✔️ Orange-flavoured chews ideal for children who dislike liquids
  • ✔️ Works within 20–30 minutes to reduce temperature and discomfort
  • ✔️ Lasts up to 8 hours per dose for sustained relief

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Are Ibuprofen Chewable Capsules for Children Right for Your Child?

 

When your child is in pain or running a temperature, you want something that works — and something they'll actually take. That's where ibuprofen chewable capsules for children come in. Nurofen For Children Soft Chews are orange-flavoured, chewable capsules containing 100mg of ibuprofen each, designed specifically for children aged 7 to 12 years. They offer a practical alternative to liquid suspensions, particularly for older children who find swallowing tablets difficult or dislike the texture of syrups. You can find them alongside other trusted options in our baby and toddler range.

Ibuprofen is one of the most widely used over-the-counter medicines for children in the UK. The NHS recommends it for relieving mild to moderate pain — including headaches, toothache, earache, and sore throats — as well as for reducing fever. Each pack contains 12 soft chews, making it a convenient option to keep in the medicine cabinet at home.

 

How Do Nurofen For Children Soft Chews Work in the Body?

 

Ibuprofen belongs to a class of medicines called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs. It works by inhibiting enzymes known as cyclo-oxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2), which are responsible for producing prostaglandins — chemical messengers that trigger pain, inflammation, and fever. By reducing prostaglandin production, ibuprofen helps to ease discomfort and bring a high temperature down.

  • Inhibits COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes in the body
  • Reduces prostaglandin synthesis, lowering inflammation
  • Acts centrally and peripherally to reduce pain signals
  • Lowers elevated body temperature by acting on the hypothalamus
  • Onset of action typically within 20–30 minutes of administration

 

Who Are Nurofen For Children Soft Chews Suitable For?

 

These soft chews are intended for children who are old enough to chew a capsule safely and who fall within the correct age and weight range. They are not suitable for very young children or infants — for those age groups, ibuprofen suspension or paracetamol liquid would be more appropriate.

Nurofen For Children Soft Chews may be suitable for children who:

  • Are aged between 7 and 12 years
  • Weigh at least 20kg
  • Experience mild to moderate pain (e.g. headache, toothache, earache)
  • Have a fever that needs reducing
  • Dislike liquid medicines or have difficulty swallowing tablets

 

How Do Nurofen Soft Chews Compare to Ibuprofen Suspension?

 

Feature Nurofen Soft Chews (100mg) Nurofen For Children Suspension (100mg/5ml)
Suitable age 7–12 years 3 months–12 years (weight dependent)
Formulation Chewable soft capsule Oral liquid suspension
Dose measurement Fixed per capsule (100mg) Variable by weight/age using dosing syringe
Portability Easy to carry, no measuring required Requires measuring device

 

How Should Nurofen For Children Soft Chews Be Stored?

 

Store Nurofen For Children Soft Chews below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Always keep medicines out of the sight and reach of children — ideally in a locked medicine cabinet. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging. If you're building a home first aid kit, you'll find a range of useful products in our first aid collection.

These ibuprofen chewable capsules for children should not be stored in the bathroom or near a sink, as moisture can affect the capsule shell. If the capsules appear damaged or discoloured, do not use them and dispose of them safely via your local pharmacy.

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 For Children Soft Chews - 12 Chewable Capsules specifications
Treatment category Children's pain relief and fever reduction
Active ingredient Ibuprofen 100mg per capsule
Mechanism of action NSAID — inhibits COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, reducing prostaglandin synthesis
Suitable for Children aged 7–12 years (minimum 20kg body weight)
Pack size 12 chewable capsules
Strength 100mg ibuprofen per capsule
UK classification General Sale List (GSL)
Drug class Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
Preparation Soft chewable capsule
Route of administration Oral
Effective for Mild to moderate pain, fever

Specifications of Nurofen For Children Soft Chews - 12 Chewable Capsules

 

What Is Nurofen For Children Soft Chews and What Is It Used For?

 

Nurofen For Children Soft Chews are orange-flavoured, chewable capsules each containing 100mg of ibuprofen. They are used to relieve mild to moderate pain and to reduce fever in children aged 7 to 12 years. Conditions they can help with include headache, dental pain, earache, sore throat, and the aches associated with colds and flu. The NHS recognises ibuprofen as an appropriate medicine for managing pain and high temperature in children when used at the correct dose.

These soft chews are classified as a General Sale List (GSL) medicine in the UK, meaning they can be purchased without a prescription. However, it is important to read the packaging carefully and follow the dosage instructions precisely. If your child's symptoms do not improve within 3 days, or worsen at any point, you should seek medical advice promptly.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Nurofen For Children Soft Chews?

 

Before giving these soft chews to your child, check the following contraindications and warnings carefully:

  • Do not use in children under 7 years of age or weighing less than 20kg
  • Do not use if your child is allergic to ibuprofen, aspirin, or any other NSAID
  • Do not use if your child has a history of asthma triggered by aspirin or NSAIDs
  • Do not use if your child has an active stomach ulcer or gastrointestinal bleeding
  • Do not use if your child has severe kidney, liver, or heart problems
  • Do not use alongside other ibuprofen-containing products — this can lead to accidental overdose
  • Use with caution in children with chickenpox — ibuprofen has been associated with serious skin complications in this context
  • Speak to a pharmacist or GP before use if your child has any chronic health condition

The following medicines may interact with ibuprofen. Always check with a pharmacist if your child is taking any of these:

  • Aspirin or other NSAIDs (e.g. naproxen)
  • Anticoagulants such as warfarin
  • Lithium
  • Methotrexate
  • Certain antihypertensives (e.g. ACE inhibitors, diuretics)
  • Corticosteroids

 

How Should You Use Nurofen For Children Soft Chews?

 

Always give this medicine exactly as described on the packaging or as directed by a pharmacist. The soft chews should be chewed thoroughly before swallowing. They can be taken with or after food to help reduce the chance of stomach upset.

  1. Check your child's age and weight to confirm they are eligible (7–12 years, minimum 20kg)
  2. Give 1 to 2 soft chews (100mg–200mg ibuprofen) per dose
  3. Allow your child to chew the capsule(s) thoroughly before swallowing
  4. Offer a drink of water afterwards if needed
  5. Wait at least 6 hours before giving the next dose
  6. Do not give more than 3 doses in any 24-hour period
  7. Do not use for more than 3 days without seeking medical advice
Age Group Weight Dose Frequency Max daily dose
7–9 years 20–29kg 1 soft chew (100mg) Up to 3 times daily 300mg
10–12 years 30kg+ 2 soft chews (200mg) Up to 3 times daily 600mg

If you're looking for broader children's pain relief options or want to explore alternatives, our pain relief collection includes a range of suitable products.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Nurofen For Children Soft Chews?

 

Like all medicines, ibuprofen can cause side effects, although not every child will experience them. Most side effects are mild and resolve on their own. Stop use and seek medical advice if your child develops any serious or unexpected symptoms.

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

  • Stomach upset or abdominal discomfort
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Diarrhoea
  • Indigestion or heartburn

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

  • Headache or dizziness
  • Skin rash or itching
  • Fatigue
  • Mild allergic reactions

Rarely, ibuprofen can cause more serious reactions including gastrointestinal bleeding, severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), or worsening of asthma. If your child develops difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, blood in stools, or severe stomach pain, stop the medicine immediately and seek emergency medical help.

 

How Should You Store Nurofen For Children Soft Chews?

 

  • Store below 25°C in a dry place away from direct sunlight and heat
  • Do not store in the bathroom or near a sink — moisture can damage the capsule shell
  • Keep the pack tightly closed when not in use
  • Always keep out of the sight and reach of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the outer carton
  • Return unused or expired medicines to your local pharmacy for safe disposal — do not put them in household waste or flush down the sink

If you're managing your child's health at home and want to be prepared for common illnesses, you might also find it helpful to browse our cold and flu range for complementary products.

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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 For Children Soft Chews online in the UK?

You can buy Nurofen For Children Soft Chews directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy. They are dispatched quickly and no prescription is required. You can also find them in most UK pharmacies and larger supermarkets.

How do Nurofen For Children Soft Chews work in the body?

Each soft chew contains 100mg of ibuprofen, an NSAID that works by blocking COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, which reduces the production of prostaglandins — the chemicals responsible for pain, inflammation, and fever. This dual action means it can tackle both discomfort and high temperature at the same time. Effects typically begin within 20 to 30 minutes of taking the dose.

What age are Nurofen For Children Soft Chews suitable for?

These soft chews are suitable for children aged 7 to 12 years who weigh at least 20kg. They are not appropriate for children under 7 years old — for younger children, ibuprofen suspension or paracetamol liquid would be more suitable. Always check the packaging before use.

How many Nurofen Soft Chews should my child take per dose?

Children aged 7 to 9 years (20–29kg) should take 1 soft chew (100mg) per dose, up to three times daily. Children aged 10 to 12 years (30kg or more) can take 2 soft chews (200mg) per dose, up to three times daily. Never exceed 3 doses in any 24-hour period.

Can Nurofen For Children Soft Chews be taken on an empty stomach?

It is generally advisable to give ibuprofen with or after food to reduce the risk of stomach irritation, though it can be taken without food if necessary. If your child regularly experiences stomach upset after taking ibuprofen, always give it with a meal or snack. Speak to your pharmacist if stomach discomfort persists.

How long does it take for Nurofen For Children Soft Chews to work?

Ibuprofen typically starts to reduce pain and fever within 20 to 30 minutes of being taken. The effect usually lasts for around 6 to 8 hours, which is why doses should be spaced at least 6 hours apart. If there is no improvement after 24 hours, seek advice from a pharmacist or GP.

Can I give Nurofen Soft Chews alongside paracetamol?

Yes, ibuprofen and paracetamol can generally be used together or alternated in children, as they work through different mechanisms. This approach is sometimes recommended by healthcare professionals for managing higher fevers or more persistent pain. Always follow the correct dose for each medicine separately and consult a pharmacist if you are unsure.

What are the side effects of Nurofen For Children Soft Chews?

Common side effects include stomach upset, nausea, diarrhoea, and indigestion. Less commonly, children may experience headache, dizziness, or a mild skin rash. Rarely, more serious reactions such as gastrointestinal bleeding or severe allergic responses can occur — stop use immediately and seek medical help if these develop.

Who should not use Nurofen For Children Soft Chews?

These soft chews should not be given to children under 7 years old, those allergic to ibuprofen or aspirin, or children with NSAID-induced asthma, active stomach ulcers, or severe kidney, liver, or heart problems. Children with chickenpox should also avoid ibuprofen unless directed by a doctor, as it has been linked to serious skin complications in this context. Always read the full list of contraindications on the packaging.

What happens if my child accidentally takes too many soft chews?

If your child takes more than the recommended dose, contact NHS 111 or go to your nearest A&E immediately — even if they seem well. Symptoms of ibuprofen overdose can include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, drowsiness, and in severe cases, more serious complications. Always keep medicines stored safely out of children's reach.

What should I do if I miss giving my child a dose?

If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember — unless it is nearly time for the next dose, in which case skip the missed one and continue as normal. Never give a double dose to make up for a missed one. Ibuprofen is used as needed for pain and fever, so strict timing is less critical than with some other medicines.

Are Nurofen For Children Soft Chews suitable for children with asthma?

Ibuprofen can trigger or worsen asthma in some children, particularly those who have previously reacted to aspirin or other NSAIDs. If your child has asthma, speak to your GP or pharmacist before using these soft chews. Paracetamol is often considered a safer alternative for children with asthma.

How do ibuprofen chewable capsules for children compare to ibuprofen suspension?

Ibuprofen chewable capsules for children offer a convenient, pre-measured dose that doesn't require a measuring syringe, making them easier to use on the go. Suspension is more flexible for younger children or those who need weight-adjusted doses below 100mg. Both formulations contain the same active ingredient and work in the same way. You can explore further pain relief options on our website.

How long can my child use Nurofen For Children Soft Chews for?

These soft chews should not be used for more than 3 consecutive days without seeking medical advice. They are intended for short-term relief of pain and fever, not for ongoing or chronic conditions. If your child's symptoms persist beyond 3 days or worsen, consult your GP.

What are the alternatives to Nurofen For Children Soft Chews?

Alternatives include children's paracetamol (liquid or tablets, depending on age), ibuprofen suspension, or other branded ibuprofen products for children. For children who cannot take ibuprofen, paracetamol is the most commonly recommended alternative. Browse our baby and toddler collection for a full range of children's health products.

How Should You Use Nurofen For Children Soft Chews?

Always read the packaging carefully before giving this medicine to your child. The soft chews are designed to be chewed thoroughly — not swallowed whole — so make sure your child understands this before taking them. Giving the chews with or after food can help reduce the chance of stomach discomfort.

Follow these steps each time you give a dose:

What Is the Correct Dose of Nurofen For Children Soft Chews?

The correct dose depends on your child's age and weight. Always use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time necessary. Do not give more than 3 doses in any 24-hour period, and do not use for more than 3 consecutive days without seeking medical advice.

When Is the Best Time to Use Nurofen For Children Soft Chews?

Give the soft chews when your child first shows signs of pain or a rising temperature — there is no need to wait until symptoms become severe. Giving ibuprofen with or shortly after a meal is ideal, as this helps protect the stomach lining and may reduce the likelihood of nausea. If your child wakes in the night with pain or fever, a dose can be given at that time, provided at least 6 hours have passed since the last dose.

Try to space doses evenly throughout the day. For example, if you give the first dose in the morning, aim for the second in the early afternoon and the third in the evening if still needed.

How Long Can You Use Nurofen For Children Soft Chews For?

These soft chews are intended for short-term use only. Do not give them to your child for more than 3 consecutive days without consulting a GP or pharmacist. If your child's pain or fever has not improved within 24 hours, or if symptoms worsen at any point, seek medical advice promptly rather than continuing to self-treat.

Prolonged use of ibuprofen without medical supervision is not recommended, as it can increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects and other complications. If your child has a recurring or chronic condition requiring regular pain relief, speak to your GP about the most appropriate long-term management plan.

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

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Nurofen For Children Soft Chews?

Most children tolerate ibuprofen well when it is used at the correct dose for a short period. However, like all medicines, it can cause side effects in some children. The most common ones affect the digestive system and are usually mild.

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

Giving the soft chews with food can help reduce the likelihood of these effects. If stomach symptoms are persistent or severe, stop use and speak to a pharmacist.

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Nurofen For Children Soft Chews?

Less commonly, some children may experience side effects that are not related to the digestive system. These are generally mild and tend to resolve once the medicine is stopped.

  • Headache
  • Dizziness or light-headedness
  • Fatigue or tiredness
  • Mild skin rash or itching
  • Fluid retention or mild swelling

If any of these side effects are troublesome or do not go away, consult your pharmacist or GP for guidance.

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Nurofen For Children Soft Chews?

Serious side effects are rare but can occur. You should stop giving the medicine immediately and seek urgent medical attention if your child experiences any of the following:

  • Signs of an allergic reaction — swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat; difficulty breathing; severe skin rash
  • Blood in stools, black or tarry stools, or vomiting blood — these may indicate gastrointestinal bleeding
  • Worsening of asthma symptoms or sudden breathlessness
  • Severe stomach pain
  • Signs of kidney problems — changes in how much your child urinates, swelling in the legs or ankles
  • Serious skin reactions such as blistering or peeling

Children with chickenpox should not be given ibuprofen unless specifically advised by a doctor, as it has been associated with serious secondary skin infections in this group.

What Should You Do If Your Child Experiences Side Effects?

For mild side effects such as stomach upset, try giving the next dose with food and monitor your child closely. If side effects are moderate or do not improve, stop the medicine and speak to a pharmacist before continuing. For any serious or unexpected reaction, stop use immediately and seek medical help — call NHS 111 or go to your nearest A&E if you are concerned.

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

Can Nurofen For Children Soft Chews Interact With Other Medicines?

Ibuprofen can interact with a number of other medicines, which may increase the risk of side effects or reduce the effectiveness of either medicine. Always tell your pharmacist about any other medicines your child is taking before starting these soft chews. Known interactions include aspirin, other NSAIDs, warfarin, lithium, methotrexate, ACE inhibitors, diuretics, and corticosteroids. Do not give alongside other ibuprofen-containing products, as this significantly increases the risk of overdose and side effects.

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

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Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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