3. Dexibuprofen

Dexibuprofen

  • Take dexibuprofen with a drink of milk, a meal or just after eating some food.
  • If you buy any medicines, check that they are safe to take with dexibuprofen.
Type of medicine Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
Used for Relief of pain and inflammation
Also called Seractil®
Available as Tablets

Dexibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. It is also known as an NSAID.

It is used to relieve pain and inflammation caused by arthritis, muscular pain, period (menstrual) pain and dental pain.

Dexibuprofen works by blocking a substance in the body called cyclo-oxygenase (COX) which is involved in the production of irritant chemicals in response to injury or disease. By blocking the action of COX, dexibuprofen reduces the symptoms of pain and inflammation.

Before taking dexibuprofen make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
  • If you are under 18 or over 65 years of age.
  • If you have liver or kidney problems.
  • If you have asthma or any other allergic disorder.
  • If you have ever had a stomach or duodenal ulcer.
  • If you have heart problems.
  • If you have ever had blood clotting problems.
  • If you have blood in your stools.
  • If you have systemic lupus erythematosus (an inflammatory condition also called lupus or SLE).
  • If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines.
  • If you have ever had an allergic or unusual reaction to any other NSAID (this includes aspirin, naproxen, diclofenac and indometacin) or to any other medicine.
  • Before starting dexibuprofen, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside the pack.
  • Take dexibuprofen exactly as your doctor has told you.
  • Taking dexibuprofen with a glass of milk or after eating some food helps prevent side-effects such as indigestion.
  • If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose, in which case leave out the forgotten dose. Do not take two doses together to make up for a missed dose.
  • Your doctor will try to prescribe you the lowest dose for the shortest time so that you do not suffer from side-effects. If you need to take dexibuprofen for a long time, your doctor may want to prescribe another medicine along with it to protect your stomach from irritation.
  • Remember to keep any regular doctor's appointments so your progress can be monitored.
  • If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with dexibuprofen.

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

Common side-effects What can I do if I experience this
Indigestion, heartburn, stomach pain Make sure you take your doses with a meal or with a glass of milk. If the discomfort continues, speak with your doctor
Feeling or being sick Eat little and often. Stick to simple or bland foods - avoid rich or spicy foods
Diarrhoea Drink plenty of water to replace the lost fluids
Dizziness, drowsiness Make sure your reactions are normal before driving or operating machinery
Ringing noise in the ears, blurred vision, headache, nervousness, mood changes, skin rash and difficulty sleeping If any of these become troublesome, speak with your doctor

Important: If you experience any of the following, speak with your doctor or go to your local accident and emergency department without delay:

  • Any sign of bleeding in the stomach or intestine, such as blood in vomit or dark stools.
  • Any shortness of breath, or swelling of the mouth or face.
  • A severe skin rash.
  • A severe headache with a high temperature and a stiff neck.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

  • Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
  • If you are having an operation or any dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
  • Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine, go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.
Provide feedback

Further reading & references

  • British National Formulary; 60th Edition (September 2010) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.
  • Manufacturer’s PIL, Seractil® 300mg Film-Coated Tablets; Manufacturer’s PIL, Seractil® 300mg Film-Coated Tablets, Genus Pharmaceuticals, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated April 2008.
Original Author: Helen Allen Current Version:
Last Checked: 23/03/2011 Document ID: 13612  Version: 1 © EMIS

Disclaimer: This article is for information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. EMIS has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but make no warranty as to its accuracy. Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. For details see our conditions.

The Information Standard - certified member

The authors and editors of this article create up to date content reflecting reliable research evidence, guidance and best clinical practice. Learn more

Advertisements