Nurofen (Ibuprofen, Codeine Phosphate Hemihydrate)

Ibuprofen and Codeine Phosphate Hemihydrate, the active ingredients in Nurofen, are a nonsteroidal anti‑inflammatory drug (NSAID) and an opioid analgesic presented as an oral combination tablet for oral use. It treats mild to moderate pain, fever and related discomfort in adult patients. GNH USA supplies Nurofen as a licensed, GDP‑compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving hospitals, pharmacies and clinics worldwide.

Nurofen, a combination NSAID and opioid analgesic, is indicated for conditions that involve pain and fever.

- Mild to moderate pain: provides effective analgesia for acute pain such as injury or postoperative discomfort. - Fever: reduces elevated body temperature associated with infection or inflammation. - Headache: alleviates tension‑type and migraine‑related head pain. - Dental pain: eases pain after dental procedures or toothache. - Musculoskeletal pain: relieves pain from strains, sprains and arthritis flares. - Menstrual pain: diminishes dysmenorrhea and associated cramps.

Adverse reactions may vary in frequency and severity.

Common Side Effects: - Nausea: mild to moderate stomach upset. - Constipation: reduced bowel movements. - Dizziness: transient light‑headedness. - Drowsiness: increased sleepiness. - Stomach upset: dyspepsia or heartburn. - Headache: occasional mild headache.

Serious or Rare Side Effects: - Gastrointestinal bleeding or ulceration: potentially life‑threatening. - Renal impairment: reduced kidney function. - Hepatic injury: elevated liver enzymes. - Respiratory depression: especially with high opioid exposure. - Severe allergic reactions: rash, swelling, anaphylaxis. - Seizures: rare neurologic events.

Before prescribing Nurofen, clinicians should consider several safety factors.

- Assess renal function: avoid in patients with severe kidney disease. - Evaluate gastrointestinal risk: avoid in active peptic ulcer disease or history of GI bleeding. - Use cautiously with other CNS depressants: increased sedation and respiratory risk. - Monitor for signs of dependence: codeine may cause addiction with prolonged use. - Do not use in children under 12 without specialist guidance: safety data limited. - Store at room temperature: keep in the original pack, protect from moisture.

Nurofen can interact with several drug classes, requiring careful management.

Major Interactions (Avoid): - Concurrent opioid analgesics: heightened risk of respiratory depression. - Additional NSAIDs or aspirin: increased gastrointestinal bleeding. - Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): amplified anticoagulant effect and bleeding.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely): - Alcohol: may potentiate sedation and GI irritation. - CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., fluoxetine): can raise codeine plasma levels. - Diuretics: may affect renal clearance of ibuprofen. - ACE inhibitors or ARBs: combined use may reduce renal perfusion.