Ibuprofen 400mg

Price range: £1.99 through £6.99

Ibuprofen 400mg Tablets are a pharmacy medicine (P line) for moderate pain and inflammation.
Trusted NSAID for arthritis, dental pain, and muscular aches.
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1 Pharmacy Medicine Consultation

Introduction

Ibuprofen 400mg Tablets are a potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic medication used for short-term relief of moderate pain, inflammation, and fever. This strength is typically reserved for conditions that require stronger relief than lower-dose alternatives, such as toothache, menstrual cramps, muscle aches, joint pain, backache, and arthritis flare-ups.

Belonging to the NSAID (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug) class, ibuprofen is a first-line treatment for many musculoskeletal and inflammatory disorders when used appropriately and under pharmacist or GP supervision.

How It Works

Ibuprofen works by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2) enzymes, which are responsible for producing prostaglandins—chemical messengers that trigger inflammation, swelling, pain, and fever. By blocking this process, ibuprofen reduces both the sensation of pain and the biological signs of inflammation.

The 400mg strength offers a higher therapeutic dose per tablet compared to over-the-counter 200mg forms, often providing faster and longer-lasting relief for more intense or persistent symptoms.

Why Choose Ibuprofen 400mg Tablets

Effective for moderate to severe pain

Reduces inflammation and fever

Longer duration of action than 200mg tablets

Widely prescribed for arthritis, injury, and post-surgical recovery

Combines well with paracetamol for dual-analgesic effects

This strength is especially useful when lower-dose options are ineffective or when patients need extended relief without taking multiple tablets.

Important Note

Ibuprofen 400mg should only be taken under medical advice or supervision. It is not suitable for prolonged self-medication. Always follow dosage instructions carefully and take with food to reduce gastrointestinal risks.

Those with ulcers, bleeding disorders, asthma, cardiovascular issues, or renal impairment should consult their GP before use.

Directions

Note: Always follow GP or pharmacist advice.

  • Adults and children over 12 years:

    • Take 1 tablet (400mg) every 6 to 8 hours as needed

    • Do not exceed 3 tablets (1200mg) in 24 hours unless prescribed

How to take:

  • Swallow whole with water

  • Take with food or milk

Storage:

  • Store below 25°C

  • Keep out of reach of children

  • Protect from moisture

Ingredients

  • Active Ingredient:

    • Ibuprofen 400mg

  • Excipients:

    • Lactose

    • Povidone

    • Sodium starch glycolate

    • Magnesium stearate

Side Effects

Common side effects:

  • Heartburn or indigestion

  • Stomach pain

  • Headache or dizziness

Rare but serious:

  • Gastric ulcers or bleeding

  • Kidney impairment

  • Increased blood pressure

  • Allergic reactions (rash, swelling, asthma)

Stop use and seek help if severe side effects occur.

Warnings

  • Do not use if:

    • You have a history of ulcers or GI bleeding

    • You’re allergic to ibuprofen or other NSAIDs

    • You’re pregnant (especially 3rd trimester)

  • Use with caution if:

    • You have asthma, heart disease, kidney/liver issues

    • You take blood thinners (e.g. warfarin)