Basic Nurofen Information

• INN (International Nonproprietary Name): Ibuprofen • Brand names available in Australia: Nurofen, Advil, Brufen • ATC Code: M01AE01 • Forms & dosages: Tablets, liquid gels, oral suspension, and gel • Manufacturers in Australia: Reckitt Benckiser, Johnson & Johnson • Registration status in Australia: TGA approved • OTC / Rx classification: Available as OTC in low doses

Critical Warnings & Restrictions

When considering the use of Nurofen, it’s essential to recognise particular populations that may be at higher risk of experiencing adverse effects. This includes the elderly, pregnant individuals, and those with chronic illnesses. For these groups:

• Elderly patients: Often have a higher sensitivity to medications, increasing the risk of side effects like gastrointestinal bleeding or renal issues.
• Pregnant individuals: Nurofen is generally advised against, especially in the third trimester, as it can harm the fetus and complicate pregnancy.
• Individuals with chronic illnesses: Conditions such as asthma, liver issues, and kidney disorders should be discussed with a healthcare professional before using Nurofen.

Consultation with a medical professional is critical before using Nurofen, especially for these high-risk groups.

Interaction With Activities

Nurofen can have side effects that impact concentration and coordination. Medications like Nurofen may lead to drowsiness, affecting your ability to drive or safety at work. Here are some guidelines:

• If you notice dizziness or any other side effects, refrain from activities that require full attention, such as driving.
• It is advisable to wait at least 24-hours after taking Nurofen before engaging in such activities, but always consult with a healthcare provider for personalised advice.

Q&A — “Can I drive after taking it in Australia?”

The general recommendation is to wait at least 24 hours after taking Nurofen before driving, especially if you are new to the medication and unsure how it affects you.

Usage Basics

Concerned about the right pain relief for you or your family? Nurofen is one of the most popular options out there in Australia, but what do you actually know about it? Let’s dive into the essentials.

INN, brand names available in Australia

The International Nonproprietary Name (INN) for Nurofen is **ibuprofen**.

In Australia, Nurofen is commonly available under several brand names, including:

• Nurofen
• Advil
• Brufen

These brands offer various formulations suitable for adults and children. Here’s a glimpse into the specific formulations:

• Nurofen: available in tablets (200 mg, 400 mg, 600 mg, and 800 mg), liquid gels, and oral suspensions targeted for different age groups.
• Advil: similar offerings, primarily focusing on pain relief and fever reduction.
• Brufen: more commonly prescribed for arthritis and chronic pain management.

This wide range helps cater to individual needs, whether it's mild discomfort, dental pain, or inflammation.

Legal classification

Nurofen falls under the legal jurisdiction of Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), which ensures the safety and efficacy of medications. It is available as an over-the-counter medication, meaning individuals can buy Nurofen without needing a prescription.

Additionally, it's listed under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), making it accessible for many Australians who rely on this effective pain relief. Being TGA-approved not only bolsters consumer confidence but also indicates a standardized level of quality and safety.

Dosing Guide

Standard regimens (PBS reference dosing)

Administering the right dosage of Nurofen is crucial for effective pain relief and fever management. For adults, a standard dosage can be as follows:

• 200-400 mg taken every 4 to 6 hours
• Maximum of 1200 mg per day for over-the-counter (OTC) usage
• Healthcare professionals may prescribe up to 3200 mg per day when deemed necessary

• 5-10 mg/kg per dose every 6-8 hours
• Do not exceed 40 mg/kg of body weight per day

Adjustments for comorbidities

Administering Nurofen requires consideration for individual health conditions, especially in vulnerable groups such as the elderly and those with renal or liver conditions:

• **Elderly**: Initiation at a lower dose is recommended due to increased risk of side effects, such as gastrointestinal issues.
• **Renal Impairment**: If a patient has compromised kidney function, dosing should be carefully adjusted. Regular monitoring may be necessary to prevent drug accumulation.
• **Liver Issues**: In instances of liver dysfunction, lower doses or less frequent dosing may be necessary to mitigate the risk of serious side effects.

Q&A — “What if I miss a dose?”

If a dose is missed, simply skip it and continue with the next scheduled dose. Never double up on doses to catch up, as this could lead to potential overdose and increased side effects.

Delivery Times for Nurofen