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Nurofen Long Lasting Pain Relief 300mg Prolonged Release - 24 Capsules

Nurofen Long Lasting Pain Relief 300mg Prolonged Release - 24 Capsules

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  • 5. Supports cardiovascular risk reduction
  • 6. Over 22 million patients treated with semaglutide-based therapies since 2018

  • ✔️ Provides up to 8 hours of continuous pain relief per dose
  • ✔️ Prolonged release formula reduces daily dosing frequency
  • ✔️ Relieves headache, period pain, backache, and dental pain
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over
  • ✔️ Each pack contains 24 capsules for multi-day pain management

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What Are Ibuprofen Prolonged Release Capsules Used For?

 

Nurofen Long Lasting Pain Relief 300mg Prolonged Release Capsules contain ibuprofen prolonged release capsules as the active ingredient — specifically 300mg of ibuprofen per capsule. Unlike standard ibuprofen tablets, this formulation is designed to release the medicine gradually, providing up to 8 hours of continuous relief from mild to moderate pain. That means fewer doses throughout the day, which many people find far more manageable when dealing with persistent discomfort. You can browse the full range of options in our pain relief collection if you're comparing products.

Each pack contains 24 capsules, making it a practical choice for short-term pain management at home. At £7.59, it sits comfortably within the OTC price range for branded ibuprofen products in the UK. It's worth noting that this is a medicine — always read the label and speak to your pharmacist if you're unsure whether it's right for you.

 

How Do Nurofen Long Lasting Capsules Work?

 

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 — the chemicals that trigger pain, inflammation, and fever in the body. By reducing prostaglandin production, ibuprofen helps to ease pain signals and reduce swelling at the site of injury or irritation.

  • Ibuprofen blocks COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes in the body
  • This reduces prostaglandin synthesis, lowering pain and inflammation
  • The prolonged release capsule shell dissolves slowly, releasing ibuprofen over an extended period
  • This sustained release mechanism provides up to 8 hours of relief per dose

The prolonged release technology is what sets this product apart from standard 200mg or 400mg ibuprofen tablets. Rather than a rapid spike and drop in drug levels, the gradual release helps maintain more consistent pain control — particularly useful overnight or during a long working day.

 

Who Is Nurofen Long Lasting 300mg Suitable For?

 

This product is suitable for adults and young people aged 12 years and over who need relief from mild to moderate pain. It's particularly well-suited to those who find it inconvenient to take tablets every 4–6 hours, or who need overnight pain coverage without waking to re-dose.

  • Adults experiencing headache, dental pain, or period pain
  • People with muscular aches, backache, or rheumatic pain
  • Those managing cold or flu symptoms alongside fever
  • Individuals aged 12 and over who prefer a prolonged release option

It is not suitable for children under 12, people in the third trimester of pregnancy, or those with known hypersensitivity to ibuprofen or other NSAIDs. If you have a history of stomach ulcers, kidney problems, or cardiovascular disease, speak to your GP or pharmacist before use.

 

How Does Nurofen Long Lasting Compare to Standard Ibuprofen?

 

Feature Nurofen Long Lasting 300mg Standard Ibuprofen 400mg Tablets
Dose per unit 300mg (2 capsules = 600mg) 400mg per tablet
Duration of action Up to 8 hours 4–6 hours
Dosing frequency Up to 3 times daily Up to 3 times daily (every 4–6 hrs)
Formulation Prolonged release capsule Immediate release tablet

 

How Should You Store Nurofen Long Lasting Capsules?

 

Store these capsules below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep them out of the reach and sight of children at all times. Do not use the capsules after the expiry date printed on the pack — if in doubt, return them to your local pharmacy for safe disposal. If you're also managing other health concerns alongside pain, our vitamins and supplements collection may be worth exploring as part of a broader wellness approach.

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 Long Lasting Pain Relief 300mg Prolonged Release 24 Capsules specifications
Treatment category Pain relief
Active ingredient Ibuprofen 300mg
Mechanism of action NSAID — COX-1 and COX-2 inhibitor
Effective for Mild to moderate pain, fever, inflammation
Suitable for Adults and young people aged 12 and over
Pack size 24 capsules
Strength 300mg ibuprofen per capsule
UK classification General Sale Medicine (GSL)
Drug class Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
Preparation Prolonged release capsule
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Nurofen Long Lasting Pain Relief 300mg Prolonged Release 24 Capsules

 

What Is Nurofen Long Lasting 300mg and What Is It Used For?

 

Nurofen Long Lasting Pain Relief 300mg Prolonged Release Capsules are an over-the-counter NSAID medicine containing ibuprofen. They are used to relieve mild to moderate pain, including headache, dental pain, period pain, backache, muscular aches, rheumatic pain, and the symptoms of cold and flu such as fever and sore throat. The prolonged release formulation means each dose works for up to 8 hours, making it a practical option for people who need sustained pain control without frequent re-dosing. According to the NHS, ibuprofen is one of the most commonly used pain relief medicines in the UK and is effective for a wide range of everyday pain conditions.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Nurofen Long Lasting Capsules?

 

Before taking these capsules, it's important to check whether they are appropriate for you. Do not take them if any of the following apply:

  • You are allergic to ibuprofen, aspirin, or any other NSAID
  • You have or have previously had a stomach ulcer or gastrointestinal bleeding
  • You are in the third trimester of pregnancy (28 weeks or more)
  • You have severe heart failure, severe kidney disease, or severe liver disease
  • You are under 12 years of age

Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before use if you have asthma, high blood pressure, a history of heart disease, inflammatory bowel disease, or if you are trying to conceive. NSAIDs can affect fertility in women when taken regularly.

Be aware of the following potential drug interactions:

  • Aspirin and other NSAIDs — increased risk of side effects
  • Warfarin and other anticoagulants — ibuprofen may increase bleeding risk
  • Lithium — ibuprofen can raise lithium blood levels
  • Methotrexate — risk of toxicity may increase
  • Antihypertensives (blood pressure medicines) — ibuprofen may reduce their effectiveness
  • SSRIs (antidepressants) — increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding

 

How Should You Take Nurofen Long Lasting 300mg Capsules?

 

Always take this medicine exactly as described on the label or as directed by your pharmacist. Do not exceed the stated dose.

  1. Take two capsules (600mg ibuprofen) with a full glass of water
  2. Swallow the capsules whole — do not crush or chew them
  3. Take with food or milk to reduce the risk of stomach upset
  4. Wait at least 8 hours before taking the next dose
  5. Do not take more than 6 capsules (1800mg) in any 24-hour period
  6. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time necessary
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Mild to moderate pain / fever Adults and 12+ 2 capsules (600mg) Every 8 hours (max 3 times daily)
Under 12 years Children under 12 Not suitable Not applicable

If your symptoms persist for more than 3 days, or worsen at any point, stop taking the capsules and consult your GP. For those also dealing with digestive discomfort alongside pain, it may be worth checking our indigestion collection for suitable remedies to take alongside ibuprofen.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Nurofen Long Lasting Capsules?

 

Like all medicines, ibuprofen prolonged release capsules can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. The most common ones tend to affect the digestive system.

Common side effects:

  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Indigestion or heartburn
  • Stomach pain or discomfort
  • Diarrhoea or constipation
  • Flatulence

Less common side effects:

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

Stop taking the capsules and seek immediate medical attention if you experience signs of a serious allergic reaction (such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat), black or bloody stools, severe stomach pain, or chest pain. These may indicate a serious gastrointestinal or cardiovascular event.

 

How Should You Store Nurofen Long Lasting Capsules?

 

  • Store below 25°C in a dry place away from direct heat and sunlight
  • Keep in the original packaging until use
  • Keep out of the reach and sight 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 capsules to your pharmacy

If you're managing pain alongside other conditions, our first aid collection includes a range of complementary products that may help with minor injuries and recovery at home.

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 Long Lasting Pain Relief 300mg online in the UK?

You can order Nurofen Long Lasting Pain Relief 300mg Prolonged Release Capsules directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy. No prescription is needed as this is an over-the-counter medicine. Browse our full pain relief collection for more options alongside this product.

How do ibuprofen prolonged release capsules work in the body?

Ibuprofen is an NSAID that works by blocking COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, which reduces the production of prostaglandins — the chemicals responsible for pain, fever, and inflammation. The prolonged release capsule shell dissolves gradually, releasing ibuprofen slowly over time rather than all at once. This means you get up to 8 hours of continuous pain relief from a single dose, compared to 4–6 hours with standard ibuprofen tablets.

How do I take Nurofen Long Lasting 300mg capsules step by step?

Take two capsules (600mg total) with a full glass of water, ideally with food or milk to protect your stomach. Swallow them whole — never crush or chew prolonged release capsules as this destroys the slow-release mechanism. Wait at least 8 hours before taking your next dose, and do not exceed 6 capsules in any 24-hour period.

What is the correct dose of Nurofen Long Lasting 300mg for adults?

The recommended dose for adults and young people aged 12 and over is two 300mg capsules (600mg ibuprofen) taken every 8 hours as needed. You should not take more than three doses (six capsules, 1800mg) in any 24-hour period. Always use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time necessary to control your symptoms.

When is the best time to take Nurofen Long Lasting capsules?

There is no single "best" time — it depends on when your pain is most troublesome. Many people find taking a dose in the evening helpful, as the 8-hour duration can provide overnight coverage without needing to wake for a second dose. If you experience stomach sensitivity, always take the capsules with food regardless of the time of day.

What are the side effects of Nurofen Long Lasting Pain Relief?

The most common side effects are gastrointestinal, including nausea, indigestion, stomach pain, and diarrhoea. Less commonly, you might experience headache, dizziness, skin rash, or mild fluid retention. If you notice black or tarry stools, vomit blood, or have difficulty breathing, stop taking the capsules immediately and seek urgent medical attention.

How do I manage side effects of Nurofen Long Lasting capsules?

Taking the capsules with food or a glass of milk is the most effective way to reduce stomach-related side effects such as indigestion or nausea. If you regularly experience stomach discomfort with ibuprofen, speak to your pharmacist — they may recommend a stomach-protecting medicine to take alongside it. Never exceed the recommended dose, as higher doses significantly increase the risk of side effects.

Who should not take Nurofen Long Lasting 300mg capsules?

This product is not suitable for children under 12, people who are allergic to ibuprofen or other NSAIDs, those with an active or previous stomach ulcer, or anyone in the third trimester of pregnancy. People with severe heart, kidney, or liver disease should also avoid it. If you have asthma, high blood pressure, or are taking blood-thinning medicines, consult your GP or pharmacist before use.

Can I take Nurofen Long Lasting capsules during pregnancy?

Nurofen Long Lasting capsules must not be taken during the third trimester of pregnancy (from 28 weeks onwards) as ibuprofen can harm the unborn baby and cause complications during labour. Use during the first and second trimesters should only be considered on medical advice, as ibuprofen is generally not recommended in pregnancy. If you need pain relief during pregnancy, speak to your midwife or GP about safer alternatives such as paracetamol.

What happens if I miss a dose of Nurofen Long Lasting?

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 simply skip the missed one. Never take two doses at the same time or double up to compensate for a missed dose. These capsules are taken as needed for pain, so missing a dose is unlikely to cause any harm.

Can I take Nurofen Long Lasting with paracetamol?

Yes, ibuprofen and paracetamol can generally be taken together as they work through different mechanisms and do not interact with each other. In fact, alternating or combining the two is sometimes recommended by healthcare professionals for more effective pain control. However, always check with your pharmacist first, especially if you are taking any other medicines.

How does Nurofen Long Lasting compare to standard ibuprofen tablets?

Standard ibuprofen tablets (typically 200mg or 400mg) are immediate release, meaning they act quickly but wear off within 4–6 hours, requiring more frequent dosing. Nurofen Long Lasting 300mg prolonged release capsules release ibuprofen gradually, providing up to 8 hours of relief per dose — so you take fewer doses per day. The trade-off is that they may take slightly longer to start working compared to immediate release tablets.

What are alternatives to Nurofen Long Lasting for pain relief?

Alternatives include standard ibuprofen tablets (200mg or 400mg), paracetamol, aspirin (for adults only), or combination products containing both ibuprofen and paracetamol. For musculoskeletal pain, topical ibuprofen gels may also be an option with fewer systemic side effects. You can explore a range of options in our pain relief collection to find what suits you best.

How long can you take Nurofen Long Lasting capsules for?

Nurofen Long Lasting capsules are intended for short-term use only — generally no more than 3 consecutive days without medical advice. If your pain persists beyond 3 days, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms, you should stop taking the capsules and consult your GP. Long-term regular use of NSAIDs carries increased risks of gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and renal side effects.

What are the latest studies on prolonged release ibuprofen for pain?

Research consistently supports ibuprofen as an effective analgesic and anti-inflammatory for mild to moderate pain, with prolonged release formulations shown to maintain therapeutic drug levels over a longer period compared to immediate release forms. The NHS and MHRA continue to recognise ibuprofen as a safe and effective OTC option when used correctly and at the lowest effective dose. If you have specific concerns about long-term pain management, a conversation with your GP is always the best starting point.

How Should You Use Nurofen Long Lasting 300mg Capsules?

Always take Nurofen Long Lasting Pain Relief 300mg Prolonged Release Capsules exactly as described on the label or as directed by your pharmacist. These are prolonged release capsules, which means the way you take them matters — swallowing them whole is essential to ensure the medicine works correctly over the full 8-hour period.

Follow these steps each time you take a dose:

What Is the Correct Dose of Nurofen Long Lasting 300mg?

The dose is the same for all eligible users — adults and young people aged 12 and over. There is no separate dosing for elderly patients, though older adults should exercise caution and speak to their GP before use due to increased sensitivity to NSAID side effects. Children under 12 must not take this product.

When Is the Best Time to Use Nurofen Long Lasting Capsules?

Take a dose when your pain begins — there is no fixed time of day, and the timing should be guided by when you need relief most. Because each dose lasts up to 8 hours, many people find an evening dose particularly useful for overnight pain coverage, reducing the need to wake and re-dose during the night. If you are taking three doses per day, spacing them evenly (for example, morning, afternoon, and evening) helps maintain consistent pain control throughout the day.

Always take the capsules with food, regardless of the time of day, to protect your stomach lining.

How Long Can You Use Nurofen Long Lasting Capsules For?

These capsules are intended for short-term use only. Do not take them for more than 3 consecutive days without seeking medical advice. If your pain has not improved after 3 days, or if it worsens at any point, stop taking the capsules and consult your GP or pharmacist. Prolonged use of NSAIDs without medical supervision carries increased risks of gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and kidney-related side effects, so it is important not to use them as a long-term solution without professional guidance.

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

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Nurofen Long Lasting 300mg?

Like all ibuprofen-containing medicines, Nurofen Long Lasting Pain Relief 300mg Prolonged Release Capsules can cause side effects in some people. The most frequently reported ones affect the digestive system, particularly when the capsules are taken on an empty stomach. Taking them with food or milk significantly reduces this risk.

  • Nausea or feeling sick
  • Indigestion or heartburn
  • Stomach pain or discomfort
  • Diarrhoea
  • Constipation
  • Flatulence (wind)

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Nurofen Long Lasting Capsules?

Some people experience side effects that are less frequent but still worth being aware of. These tend to occur more often in people who take ibuprofen regularly or at higher doses, or in those with pre-existing health conditions. If any of the following persist or concern you, speak to your pharmacist or GP.

  • Headache or dizziness
  • Skin rash, itching, or hives
  • Fluid retention (swollen ankles, feet, or hands)
  • Raised blood pressure
  • Fatigue or tiredness
  • Mouth ulcers

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Nurofen Long Lasting Capsules?

Serious side effects are rare but can occur, particularly with prolonged use or in people with underlying health conditions. You should stop taking the capsules immediately and seek urgent medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Black, tarry, or bloody stools — this may indicate gastrointestinal bleeding
  • Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
  • Severe stomach pain
  • Chest pain, shortness of breath, or sudden weakness — possible signs of a cardiovascular event
  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing — signs of a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)
  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice) — possible sign of liver problems
  • Significant reduction in urine output — possible sign of kidney problems

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

For mild side effects such as indigestion or nausea, taking the capsules with food usually helps. If side effects are persistent or troublesome, stop taking the capsules and speak to your pharmacist — they can advise on whether a stomach-protecting medicine might help or whether an alternative pain relief option would be more suitable for you. Do not simply increase the dose in the hope of better results, as this increases the risk of adverse effects.

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 Long Lasting Capsules Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes. Ibuprofen has several clinically significant drug interactions that you should be aware of before taking these capsules. Always tell your pharmacist about all medicines you are currently taking, including over-the-counter products and herbal supplements.

  • Aspirin and other NSAIDs — combined use increases the risk of gastrointestinal side effects
  • Warfarin and anticoagulants — ibuprofen may enhance the blood-thinning effect and increase bleeding risk
  • Lithium — ibuprofen can raise lithium plasma levels, increasing toxicity risk
  • Methotrexate — ibuprofen may reduce methotrexate clearance, increasing toxicity
  • Antihypertensives (blood pressure medicines) — ibuprofen may reduce their effectiveness
  • SSRIs (antidepressants) — combined use increases the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding
  • Diuretics — ibuprofen may reduce their effectiveness and increase the risk of kidney problems

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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