Ibuprofen and Codeine

Ibuprofen and Codeine

Ibuprofen and Codeine tablets combine two painkillers in one formula. This effective dual-action pain relief contains Ibuprofen (anti-inflammatory) and Codeine (mild opioid) to treat moderate pain in certain health conditions. Together, they work by blocking the signals to the brain that cause pain and inflammation.

Why choose Ibuprofen and Codeine?

✔ For short-term use only

✔ Dual-action pain relief

✔ Fast-acting formula

✔ Clinically tested

✔ Targets moderate pain

✔ Prescription-only medication

Star Pharmacy offers pharmacist-approved solutions like Ibuprofen and Codeine tablets for pain relief with fast and discreet UK delivery.

How do Ibuprofen and Codeine work together? Ibuprofen and Codeine combine two active ingredients:
  • Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works to reduce inflammation and pain by inhibiting prostaglandin production, which is achieved by blocking the enzyme that produces these chemicals.
  • Codeine binds to opioid receptors in the central nervous system, modifying the brain’s pain response.
What are Ibuprofen and Codeine tablets used for? It is popular for short-term use, but not suitable for long-term or chronic pain management due to the risk of codeine dependency. They are commonly used for pain such as:
  • Migraine
  • Tension headaches
  • Neuralgia (nerve pain)
  • Dental pain
  • Rheumatic pain
  • Arthritic pain
  • Muscular pain
The combined effect of Ibuprofen and Codeine helps in targeting both the cause of pain and the sensation of pain. How long does the relief last? Pain relief typically begins within 30-60 minutes of taking the tablets. The effects last for up to 6 hours, though this may vary depending on the individual and the type of pain being treated. Can I take this medication for long-term pain?  No. Ibuprofen and Codeine are for short-term use only. Codeine can cause dependence and withdrawal symptoms if taken for a longer period.

Ibuprofen and Codeine combination tablets are intended for short-term relief of moderate pain in adults and children aged 12 years and over. They are typically prescribed or recommended when standard over-the-counter analgesics such as ibuprofen or paracetamol alone fail to adequately manage symptoms.

This medication may be suitable for managing:

  • Migraine and severe tension headaches

Particularly when accompanied by nausea, light sensitivity, or throbbing discomfort that disrupts daily activities.

  • Period (menstrual) pain

When cramps are intense and do not respond to over-the-counter treatments.

  • Dental pain

This includes post-extraction soreness or severe toothaches.

  • Backache and musculoskeletal pain

Such as from muscle strains, sprains, or chronic issues like sciatica.

  • Neuralgia

Sharp and shooting nerve pain (e.g., trigeminal neuralgia).

  • Post-operative pain

When short-term opioid therapy is required, but must be limited in duration.

Important: This medication is not for chronic or long-term pain management. It is meant for short-term use only, not more than 3 days, due to the risk of dependence, side effects, tolerance and withdrawal symptoms.

Before using ibuprofen and codeine, it is essential to review several medical and lifestyle considerations:

Dosage and Duration

  • Maximum dose: No more than 6 tablets in 24 hours.
  • Dosing interval: Leave at least 4 hours between each dose.
  • Limit duration: Do not use for more than 3 consecutive days. Continuing beyond this can result in serious health risks and dependence, side effects and withdrawal symptoms.

Medical Conditions & Contraindications

Avoid this medicine if you have or have had any of the following:

  • Stomach ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, or any history of digestive tract perforation
  • Severe heart, kidney, or liver conditions
  • Asthma or breathing difficulties that may be worsened
  • Allergies to ibuprofen, codeine, aspirin, or other NSAIDs

Drug Interactions

Tell your healthcare professional or pharmacist if you are taking:

  • Other NSAIDs (e.g., naproxen, aspirin)
  • Antidepressants
  • Sedatives, sleeping pills, or antihistamines that cause drowsiness
  • Blood thinners like warfarin
  • Other opioid medications or cough suppressants

 Lifestyle Warnings

  • Alcohol

Avoid alcohol while taking this medication; doing so can increase the risks of drowsiness, respiratory depression, and stomach bleeding.

  • Driving or machinery

It may impair mental alertness. Always be sure before driving or operating machinery.

  • Addiction risk

Codeine is an opioid. Even at low doses, regular use can lead to misuse, addiction, and a painkiller overuse headache.

Using this medicine properly helps reduce risks and enhances effectiveness.

Standard Dosage

  • Adults and children aged 12 and older: Take 1 or 2 tablets every 4 to 6 hours, as required.
  • Do not exceed 6 tablets in 24 hours

 Administration Tips

  • Always take with a meal or a glass of milk to reduce the risk of stomach upset
  • Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or dissolve in liquids
  • Best taken at the onset of pain rather than waiting for it to worsen

 When to Stop and Seek Advice

  • If your pain persists beyond 3 days or worsens despite treatment.
  • If you develop new symptoms (e.g., fever, vomiting, allergic rash, swelling).
  • If the medicine no longer seems effective, this could indicate tolerance or an underlying issue requiring different treatment.

Do Not Share

Never share this medication with others, even if they appear to have the same symptoms. It may be harmful for someone who is allergic, has contraindications, or is taking conflicting medications.

Active Ingredients

  • Ibuprofen

A non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that relieves pain and reduces inflammation

  • Codeine phosphate

A mild opioid analgesic that helps reduce pain perception by acting on the central nervous system

Inactive Ingredients 

  • Microcrystalline cellulose
  • Pregelatinised starch
  • Sodium starch glycolate
  • Hypromellose (film coating)
  • Opaspray white coating
  • Talc

Note: Always check the leaflet or product label for allergens or specific excipients if you have dietary restrictions or sensitivities.

Side effects can vary depending on individual sensitivity, dose taken, and treatment duration.

Common Side Effects:

  • Gastrointestinal discomfort

Indigestion, stomach pain, bloating

  • Nervous system

Drowsiness, dizziness, and light-headedness, especially during the first few doses

  • Digestive system

Constipation, nausea, or mild vomiting

Serious or Rare Side Effects:

Seek immediate medical help if you experience:

  • Severe allergic reactions

Itching, rash, hives, wheezing, swelling of face/lips/throat

  • Signs of gastrointestinal bleeding

Black or tarry stools, vomiting blood

  • Severe fatigue or confusion

May indicate liver or central nervous system effects

  • Symptoms of dependence or withdrawal

Restlessness, insomnia, irritability

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FAQs

How to use weight loss injections?

They’re usually taken once a week using a simple pre-filled pen. You inject it yourself, following the step-by-step guidance from our healthcare provider.

Yes, when prescribed and monitored by our professionals at Star Pharmacy. Some people may experience temporary side effects like nausea, headaches, or mild digestive changes.

Each pen contains four doses, so it will last for around one month when used weekly.

Generally for adults with a BMI of 30+, or 27+ if you have weight-related conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure. Your eligibility will be confirmed in a consultation.

Possible side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, and mild headaches. These effects are usually temporary and improve as your body adjusts to the medication.

Use the formula: weight (kg) ÷ height (m²), or check with any online BMI calculator for quick results.

Prescription based weight loss injections called a GLP-1 injection help you reduce appetite and help control hunger, making it easier to lose weight and keep it off.

This is a combination painkiller designed for the short-term treatment of acute, moderate pain that is not relieved by standard painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen taken alone. It contains two active ingredients:

Ibuprofen: A non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces inflammation and pain.

Codeine: An opioid analgesic that works by blocking pain signals in the brain.

It is typically used for conditions like dental pain, period pain, migraines, and rheumatic or muscular pain.

It depends. Even if they do not require a doctor's prescription, but can only be purchased from a pharmacy after a brief consultation with a pharmacist. The pharmacist will ask you some questions to ensure the medicine is safe and appropriate for you to take.

Yes, there is a risk of addiction due to the codeine. Codeine is an opioid, and prolonged use can lead to physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms. To minimise this risk, these products should only be used for a maximum of 3 consecutive days.

It is strongly advised that you do not drive or operate heavy machinery after taking this medication until you know how it affects you. Codeine can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired concentration. Under UK law, it is illegal to drive if your ability is impaired by any medicine.

The most common side effects are related to both active ingredients and include:

  • Drowsiness, dizziness, or feeling tired.
  • Constipation (a very common side effect of codeine)
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Indigestion or stomach ache (related to ibuprofen).

To help manage these, drink plenty of water to avoid constipation and take the tablets with or just after food to protect your stomach.

You should not take this medication without consulting your GP or pharmacist if you:

  • Are allergic to ibuprofen, codeine, aspirin, or any other NSAID
  • Have or have ever had a stomach ulcer or bleeding in your stomach
  • Suffer from severe liver, kidney, or heart problems
  • Have asthma that is worsened by taking NSAIDs.
  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • Are under 12 years of age 

Always follow the instructions on the patient information leaflet or as directed by your pharmacist. A general guide is:

  • Take one or two tablets with a full glass of water
  • Do not exceed the stated dose, which is typically a maximum of 6 tablets in 24 hours
  • Leave at least 4-6 hours between doses
  • Take with or just after food to reduce the chance of stomach upset
  • Do not use for more than 3 days continuously

Alcohol: You should avoid drinking alcohol as it can significantly increase the sedative effects and the risk of stomach irritation.


Other Painkillers: Do not take this medicine with other products that contain ibuprofen, aspirin, or other NSAIDs. Be careful to check the ingredients of cold and flu remedies, as they often contain ibuprofen or paracetamol. Taking multiple products containing the same active ingredient can lead to an overdose.

The 3-day limit is in place for two main safety reasons:

Addiction: To prevent dependence on the codeine component.

Medication-Overuse Headache: If you are taking it for headaches, using it for longer can ironically make the headaches worse or more frequent.

If your pain has not improved after 3 days, you should stop taking the medicine and make an appointment to see your GP to investigate the underlying cause of your pain.

An overdose of Ibuprofen and Codeine can be very serious. You must seek immediate medical help. Call 999 for an ambulance or go straight to your nearest Accident & Emergency (A&E) department. Take the medicine packet with you so the healthcare professionals know what you have taken.