Nurofen Plus is probably one of the best known and best selling over the counter pain killers on sale. The 'Plus' refers to the addition of codeine to Nurofen to make it a bit stronger. Used in pain relief of headaches and migraine, backache and muscle pain, fever, flu and cold symptoms and to reduce swelling it is a good all round drug.
What maybe isn't so commonly known is Nurofen is just a brand name for ibuprofen (the generic/non brand form) so Nurofen Plus is basically a mix of ibuprofen and codeine. Being a brand name, Nurofen is only made by Crookes Healthcare, where as ibuprofen can be made by any manufacturer. Therefore you can usually get the same thing alot cheaper by getting a supermarkets own brand. By law, generics have to have the same ingredient and have the same effectiveness as the brand name so if you buy Tesco's own, it will be as good.
It is important always to read the label of any medicine you intend on using but Nurofen Plus is one inparticular to be cautious off. The 'Plus' content, ie the codeine is in general suitable for most people. The Nurofen (ibuprofen) content can be the problem. Unsuitable for people under the age of 12, people who have (or have had) stomach ulcers and people with an intolerance of aspirin, it can also be unsuitable for people already taking aspirin for any reason (due to the two drugs being very similar, taking both together could overdose your system).
Side effects are rare, but they can include stomach cramps and nausea, worsening of asthma, headaches, dizziness and hearing disturbance. If you should suffer any of these whilst taking Nurofen (ibuprofen) stop and check with your doctor about it.
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Good op - One point - the PLUS actually refers to Codeine not Paracetamol and contains the maximum amount (12.8mg per tablet) that can be purchased over the counter without prescriptions
Sue
asterion 30.12.2000 20:52
It's interesting to note how a medicine designed for the treatment of arthritis was also targeted to a more profitable sector ofthe population, that likes to use it for the period pain. How peculiar...
Advantages: A very effective painkiller for a wide range of ailments. Disadvantages: can be addictive if taken for prolonged periods. Can cause some unpleasant side effects with some people.
the_mad_cabbie 23.11.2003 ·
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Review of Nurofen Plus
Advantages: Quick and effective in dealing with migraine and tension headaches. Disadvantages: Make you incredibly drowsy. Codeine based medication so can become habit forming.
Bollinger28 13.10.2007 ·
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