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Nurofen Plus (12.8mg/200mg)

Nurofen Plus (12.8mg/200mg)

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  • ✔️ Combines ibuprofen and codeine for dual-action moderate pain relief
  • ✔️ Targets pain both peripherally and centrally for broader coverage
  • ✔️ Effective for headache, dental pain, period pain, and neuralgia
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and adolescents aged 12 and over
  • ✔️ Pharmacy-only formula for pain unresponsive to single analgesics

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What Are Nurofen Plus Tablets and How Do They Relieve Pain?

 

Nurofen Plus tablets combine two active ingredients — ibuprofen 200mg and codeine phosphate hemihydrate 12.8mg — to tackle moderate pain that hasn't responded to a single analgesic alone. Each film-coated tablet delivers a dual-action approach: an anti-inflammatory working on the source of pain, and a mild opioid raising your brain's tolerance to it. If you've tried standard ibuprofen or paracetamol and still found yourself struggling, this combination may offer the step up you need. You can explore our full pain relief collection to compare options before deciding.

Nurofen Plus is classified as a pharmacy-only (P) medicine in the UK, meaning it's available without a prescription but must be sold under pharmacist supervision. It's indicated for the short-term relief of moderate pain — think dental pain, period pain, headache, migraine, muscular aches, and neuralgia. It is not intended for long-term use.

 

How Does Nurofen Plus Work to Reduce Pain?

 

The two ingredients in Nurofen Plus work through distinct but complementary pathways, which is exactly why the combination can be more effective than either alone.

  • Ibuprofen (200mg) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It inhibits cyclo-oxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2) enzymes, reducing the synthesis of prostaglandins — the chemical messengers responsible for pain, fever, and inflammation at the site of injury.
  • Codeine phosphate (12.8mg) is a weak opioid analgesic. Once absorbed, it is partially converted to morphine in the liver, binding to mu-opioid receptors in the central nervous system. This raises your pain threshold and alters the emotional perception of pain.
  • Together, they address pain both peripherally (at the tissue level) and centrally (in the brain and spinal cord), providing broader relief than either ingredient could achieve alone.

 

Who Is Nurofen Plus Suitable For?

 

Nurofen Plus is designed for adults and adolescents aged 12 and over who are experiencing moderate pain that has not been adequately controlled by ibuprofen or paracetamol on their own. It's particularly useful for:

  • Adults with dental pain or post-extraction discomfort
  • People experiencing moderate migraine or tension headache
  • Those with period pain (dysmenorrhoea) or muscular aches
  • Individuals with neuralgia or back pain needing short-term relief

It is not suitable for everyone. Children under 12, pregnant women, and people with certain health conditions should not use this product. Always read the full list of contraindications before purchasing.

 

How Does Nurofen Plus Compare to Standard Ibuprofen?

 

Feature Nurofen Plus (12.8mg/200mg) Standard Ibuprofen (200mg)
Active ingredients Ibuprofen + Codeine phosphate Ibuprofen only
Pain level targeted Moderate pain unresponsive to single analgesic Mild to moderate pain
Central nervous system action Yes (via codeine) No
UK classification Pharmacy (P) medicine General Sale List (GSL)
Maximum duration of use 3 consecutive days Up to 10 days (pain)

 

Is Nurofen Plus Safe to Store at Home?

 

Store Nurofen Plus tablets below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep the pack in its original carton so you can refer to the patient information leaflet at any time. Crucially, keep all medicines out of the sight and reach of children — codeine-containing products carry a particular risk if accidentally ingested by a child. If you have unused or expired tablets, return them to your local pharmacy for safe disposal rather than putting them in household waste.

If you're managing multiple health conditions alongside pain, it's worth checking our vitamins and supplements range, as certain deficiencies can contribute to chronic pain sensitivity. Always speak to your pharmacist or GP before combining Nurofen Plus with other medicines or supplements.

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 Plus (12.8mg/200mg) specifications
Treatment category Analgesic / Pain Relief
Mechanism of action COX inhibition (ibuprofen) + mu-opioid receptor agonism (codeine)
Effective for Moderate pain: headache, dental pain, period pain, muscular aches, neuralgia, migraine
Suitable for Adults and adolescents aged 12 and over
Active ingredients Ibuprofen 200mg, Codeine phosphate hemihydrate 12.8mg
Pack sizes 24 tablets
Strengths 12.8mg codeine phosphate / 200mg ibuprofen per tablet
UK classification Pharmacy (P) medicine
Drug class NSAID + weak opioid analgesic combination
Preparation Film-coated tablet
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Nurofen Plus (12.8mg/200mg)

 

What Is Nurofen Plus and What Is It Used For?

 

Nurofen Plus is a combination analgesic tablet containing ibuprofen 200mg (an NSAID) and codeine phosphate hemihydrate 12.8mg (a weak opioid). It is used for the short-term relief of moderate pain in adults and adolescents aged 12 and over — specifically when pain has not been adequately controlled by ibuprofen or paracetamol alone. Approved conditions include headache, dental pain, period pain, neuralgia, rheumatic pain, and muscular aches. It is a pharmacy-only medicine in the UK and should not be used for more than 3 consecutive days without medical supervision.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Nurofen Plus?

 

Before taking Nurofen Plus, it's essential to check whether it is appropriate for you. Do not take it if any of the following apply:

  • You are allergic to ibuprofen, codeine, aspirin, or any other NSAID
  • You have or have had a peptic ulcer, gastrointestinal bleeding, or perforation
  • You are in the third trimester of pregnancy
  • You have severe heart failure, severe kidney disease, or severe liver disease
  • You are a known ultra-rapid metaboliser of codeine (CYP2D6 ultra-rapid metaboliser)
  • You are breastfeeding
  • You are under 12 years of age
  • You have a history of codeine or opioid dependence

The following medicines may interact with Nurofen Plus — always tell your pharmacist what you are taking:

  • Anticoagulants (e.g. warfarin) — increased bleeding risk
  • Other NSAIDs or aspirin — increased risk of gastrointestinal side effects
  • SSRIs and SNRIs (antidepressants) — increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding
  • Lithium — ibuprofen may increase lithium plasma levels
  • Methotrexate — ibuprofen may reduce its renal clearance
  • Antihypertensives (e.g. ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers) — reduced blood pressure-lowering effect
  • Other opioid-containing medicines — additive CNS depression
  • Diuretics — reduced diuretic effect and increased risk of nephrotoxicity

 

How Should You Use Nurofen Plus Correctly?

 

Always take Nurofen Plus exactly as directed. Swallow tablets whole with a full glass of water. Taking them with food or milk can help reduce the chance of stomach upset.

  1. Check you are not allergic to ibuprofen, codeine, or aspirin before taking your first dose.
  2. Take 1–2 tablets with a full glass of water.
  3. If possible, take with food or milk to protect your stomach lining.
  4. Wait at least 4–6 hours before taking your next dose.
  5. Do not exceed 6 tablets in any 24-hour period.
  6. Do not use for more than 3 consecutive days without speaking to a doctor or pharmacist.
  7. Do not take alongside other ibuprofen- or codeine-containing products.
Age Group Dose Frequency Maximum Daily Dose
Adults (18+) 1–2 tablets Every 4–6 hours 6 tablets (in 24 hours)
Adolescents (12–17) 1 tablet Every 6 hours 3 tablets (in 24 hours)
Children under 12 Not suitable — do not use

If you are managing pain alongside other conditions, our first aid range includes complementary products that may support your recovery.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Nurofen Plus?

 

Like all medicines, Nurofen Plus can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Knowing what to look out for helps you use it safely.

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

  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Constipation
  • Dizziness or light-headedness
  • Drowsiness
  • Stomach discomfort or indigestion

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

  • Headache (paradoxically, with overuse)
  • Skin rash or itching
  • Fluid retention (oedema)
  • Raised blood pressure
  • Confusion or mood changes
  • Difficulty passing urine

Seek immediate medical attention if you notice black or tarry stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, severe abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or signs of a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). Prolonged use of codeine-containing medicines can also lead to dependence — this is why the 3-day limit exists. If you find you need pain relief for longer, speak to your GP rather than continuing to self-medicate. You might also find our IBS and cramps section helpful if gastrointestinal discomfort is a recurring concern.

 

How Should You Store Nurofen Plus?

 

  • Store below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct heat and sunlight
  • Keep in the original carton to protect from moisture and to retain the patient information leaflet
  • Keep out of the sight and reach 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 — do not dispose of via household waste or sink

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 Plus tablets online in the UK?

You can buy Nurofen Plus tablets from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered online pharmacy. Because it is a pharmacy-only (P) medicine, you'll complete a short eligibility questionnaire before purchase to confirm it's safe for you. Browse our full pain relief collection for a wider range of analgesic options.

How does Nurofen Plus work in the body?

Nurofen Plus contains ibuprofen, which blocks COX enzymes to reduce prostaglandin production and ease inflammation and pain at the site of injury. Codeine phosphate is converted partly to morphine in the liver and acts on mu-opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, raising your pain threshold. Together, these two mechanisms provide broader relief than either ingredient alone.

What is the correct dose of Nurofen Plus for adults?

Adults aged 18 and over should take 1–2 tablets every 4–6 hours as needed, with a maximum of 6 tablets in any 24-hour period. Adolescents aged 12–17 should take 1 tablet every 6 hours, up to a maximum of 3 tablets in 24 hours. Never exceed the stated dose, and do not use for more than 3 consecutive days without medical advice.

Can I take Nurofen Plus with paracetamol?

Yes — ibuprofen and paracetamol work by different mechanisms and can generally be taken together safely in adults. However, you must never combine Nurofen Plus with other codeine-containing products such as co-codamol, as this risks codeine overdose. Always check with your pharmacist if you are unsure about combining medicines.

What are the side effects of Nurofen Plus tablets?

Common side effects include nausea, constipation, dizziness, drowsiness, and stomach discomfort. Less commonly, you may experience headache, skin rash, fluid retention, or raised blood pressure. Stop taking the tablets and seek urgent medical attention if you notice signs of gastrointestinal bleeding (black stools, vomiting blood) or a severe allergic reaction such as facial swelling or difficulty breathing.

Who should not take Nurofen Plus?

Nurofen Plus is not suitable for children under 12, people allergic to ibuprofen, aspirin, or codeine, those with active peptic ulcers, severe kidney or liver disease, or women in the third trimester of pregnancy or who are breastfeeding. People who are CYP2D6 ultra-rapid metabolisers of codeine should also avoid it, as they convert codeine to morphine unusually quickly, increasing the risk of toxicity.

How long can you take Nurofen Plus for?

Nurofen Plus is intended for short-term use only — a maximum of 3 consecutive days. Using it beyond this limit significantly increases the risk of codeine dependence, medication-overuse headache, and gastrointestinal complications from ibuprofen. If your pain persists after 3 days, you should consult your GP rather than continuing to self-treat.

What happens if I miss a dose of Nurofen Plus?

If you miss a dose and it is nearly time for your next one, simply skip the missed dose and continue as normal. Never take a double dose to make up for a missed one, as this increases the risk of side effects from both ibuprofen and codeine. Nurofen Plus is taken as needed for pain, so strict timing is less critical than with regular prescribed medicines.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Nurofen Plus?

You should avoid alcohol while taking Nurofen Plus. Alcohol combined with ibuprofen increases the risk of stomach bleeding and ulceration, while alcohol combined with codeine can intensify drowsiness and central nervous system depression, which may be dangerous. If you need pain relief and plan to drink, speak to your pharmacist about safer alternatives.

Is Nurofen Plus safe to take during pregnancy?

No — Nurofen Plus is contraindicated in the third trimester of pregnancy and is not recommended in the first and second trimesters either, as ibuprofen may affect foetal kidney development and cause premature closure of the ductus arteriosus. Codeine use in pregnancy also carries risks to the unborn baby. Always speak to your midwife or GP before taking any pain relief during pregnancy.

What are the alternatives to Nurofen Plus for moderate pain?

Alternatives include standard ibuprofen 400mg, paracetamol 500mg, co-codamol (paracetamol 500mg with codeine 8mg or 30mg), or naproxen for inflammatory pain. The right choice depends on the nature and severity of your pain, any existing health conditions, and other medicines you take. Our pain relief collection includes a range of options to suit different needs.

Can Nurofen Plus cause dependency or addiction?

Yes — codeine is an opioid and carries a recognised risk of dependence, even at the low dose found in Nurofen Plus, particularly with prolonged or frequent use. This is why it must not be used for more than 3 consecutive days without medical supervision. If you find yourself relying on it regularly, speak to your GP, who can explore safer long-term pain management strategies.

Can I drive after taking Nurofen Plus?

Codeine can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired concentration, all of which may affect your ability to drive or operate machinery safely. You should not drive if you feel drowsy or unwell after taking Nurofen Plus. Under UK drug-driving laws, driving while impaired by any medicine — including legal ones — is an offence.

Is Nurofen Plus suitable for people with asthma?

Ibuprofen and other NSAIDs can trigger bronchospasm in people with aspirin-sensitive asthma, and this applies to Nurofen Plus too. If you have asthma, you should speak to your GP or pharmacist before taking any NSAID. Some people with asthma tolerate ibuprofen without problems, but it is not possible to predict this without medical assessment.

What are the latest guidelines on codeine use in the UK?

The MHRA has issued guidance reinforcing that codeine-containing medicines should only be used for short-term pain relief (maximum 3 days) and are not appropriate for children under 12 or for breastfeeding mothers. The NHS also advises that codeine should not be used for chronic pain without specialist oversight. If you need ongoing pain management, explore options with your GP rather than relying on over-the-counter codeine products. You may also find our sleep aid range useful if pain is disrupting your sleep.

How Should You Use Nurofen Plus?

Always take Nurofen Plus exactly as directed on the patient information leaflet or as advised by your pharmacist. Swallow each tablet whole with a full glass of water — do not crush or chew. Taking the tablets with food or milk is strongly recommended, as this helps protect the stomach lining from ibuprofen's irritant effect.

What Is the Correct Dose of Nurofen Plus?

The dose varies depending on your age. Always use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time necessary to control your symptoms. Never exceed the maximum daily dose stated below, and never give Nurofen Plus to a child under 12 years of age under any circumstances.

When Is the Best Time to Use Nurofen Plus?

Take Nurofen Plus at the onset of pain for the most effective relief — waiting until pain becomes severe can make it harder to control. If you are prone to stomach sensitivity, taking it with your main meal of the day is a practical approach. Avoid taking it late at night on an empty stomach, as this increases the risk of gastrointestinal discomfort and may also heighten the sedative effect of codeine when you are already tired.

If you are using it for period pain, starting at the first sign of cramping — rather than waiting for pain to peak — tends to give better results, as prostaglandin levels are highest in the early stages of menstruation.

How Long Can You Use Nurofen Plus For?

Nurofen Plus is strictly for short-term use — no more than 3 consecutive days. This limit exists because codeine carries a real risk of physical dependence with repeated use, and prolonged ibuprofen use increases the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney strain, and cardiovascular effects. Using any codeine-containing medicine too frequently can also cause medication-overuse headache, a paradoxical condition where the painkiller itself begins to trigger headaches.

If your pain has not improved after 3 days, or if it worsens at any point, stop taking the tablets and speak to your GP. Do not self-medicate beyond the recommended duration.

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 Plus?

Most people tolerate Nurofen Plus well when taken at the correct dose for a short period. However, side effects can occur, and it's important to know what to watch for. The most frequently reported side effects relate to both the ibuprofen and codeine components.

  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Constipation
  • Dizziness or light-headedness
  • Drowsiness or sedation
  • Stomach discomfort, indigestion, or heartburn

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Nurofen Plus?

Less frequently, some people experience side effects that are still worth being aware of, particularly if you are taking Nurofen Plus for the first time or have underlying health conditions.

  • Headache (paradoxically, with overuse — known as medication-overuse headache)
  • Skin rash, itching, or hives
  • Fluid retention causing ankle or leg swelling
  • Raised blood pressure
  • Confusion, mood changes, or difficulty concentrating
  • Difficulty passing urine (urinary retention)
  • Dry mouth

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Nurofen Plus?

Although rare, serious side effects can occur and require immediate medical attention. Do not ignore these symptoms or wait to see if they resolve on their own.

Stop taking Nurofen Plus immediately and call 999 or go to your nearest A&E if you experience:

  • Black, tarry, or blood-streaked stools — a sign of gastrointestinal bleeding
  • Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
  • Severe or persistent abdominal pain
  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (angioedema)
  • Difficulty breathing or wheezing (bronchospasm)
  • Chest pain or signs of a heart attack
  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice) — indicating liver problems
  • Significantly reduced urine output — indicating kidney problems

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

If you notice any side effect that concerns you — even if it isn't listed above — stop taking Nurofen Plus and speak to your pharmacist or GP as soon as possible. For mild side effects such as nausea, taking the tablets with food usually helps. For constipation caused by codeine, staying well hydrated and increasing dietary fibre can provide some relief. Never increase your dose in an attempt to manage side effects, and never take Nurofen Plus for longer than 3 days without medical guidance.

You can also report suspected side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.

Can Nurofen Plus Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes — Nurofen Plus has several clinically significant drug interactions. Ibuprofen can increase the blood-thinning effect of anticoagulants such as warfarin, raising the risk of serious bleeding. It can also reduce the effectiveness of antihypertensive medicines including ACE inhibitors and beta-blockers, and may increase plasma levels of lithium and methotrexate to potentially toxic levels. Codeine combined with other CNS depressants — including alcohol, benzodiazepines, or other opioids — can cause dangerous levels of sedation and respiratory depression. Always tell your pharmacist about every medicine, supplement, or herbal remedy you are taking before using Nurofen Plus.

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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