Is Brufen 200mg Strong Enough for Severe Pain?
Wondering if Brufen 200mg is strong enough for severe pain? This guide explains its uses, dosage, side effects, and when to consider stronger alternatives.

Brufen 200mg is one of the most popular painkillers with ibuprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It is used for mild and moderate pain, fever, and inflammation. But the biggest question most patients have is: Is Brufen 200mg sufficient for severe pain?
In this comprehensive guide, we will examine:
How Brufen 200mg functions
Its efficacy for varying pain conditions
Recommended dosages for various conditions
When to take stronger alternatives
Safety measures and side effects
By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of whether Brufen 200mg is suitable for your pain management needs.
1. What is Brufen 200mg?
Brufen 200mg contains ibuprofen, an NSAID that reduces pain, inflammation, and fever by blocking prostaglandins (chemicals that cause pain and swelling).
Key Uses of Brufen 200mg:
Headaches & migraines
Muscle and joint pain (e.g., back pain, arthritis)
Menstrual cramps
Dental pain
Fever reduction
Although Brufen 200mg works well for moderate to mild pain, it might not be strong enough for major pain (e.g., post-operative pain, serious injuries, or chronic ailments such as arthritis that is quite advanced).
2. Is Brufen 200mg Strong Enough to use for Severe Pain?
Pain Level Understanding
Mild Pain: Tension headaches, sprains – Brufen 200mg can normally cope.
Moderate Pain: Toothache, period pain – Brufen 200mg works but needs a repeat dose.
Severe Pain: Broken bones, serious surgery, intense migraines – Usually requires more doses (400-600mg ibuprofen) or more powerful painkillers (e.g., opioids, prescription NSAIDs).
Why Brufen 200mg is Not Sufficient for Severe Pain?
Lower dosage – 200mg is a typical dose, but severe pain usually requires 400-800mg per dose (as recommended by a physician).
Short duration – Ibuprofen's effects last 4-6 hours, thus severe pain can come back before the next dose.
Inflammation vs. Nerve Pain – Brufen is most effective against inflammatory pain (e.g., arthritis) but is not effective on neuropathic pain (e.g., sciatica).
When Can Brufen 200mg Treat Severe Pain?
If taken promptly (e.g., upon the onset of a severe migraine).
When used with rest, ice, or other methods to relieve pain.
For mild flare-ups of long-term conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis).
3. Dosage of Brufen 200mg for Various Ailments
Adults & Children Above 12:
Mild to Moderate Pain: 1-2 tablets (200-400mg) every 4-6 hours.
Maximum Daily Dose: 1200mg (6 tablets) unless directed otherwise by a physician.
In Severe Pain (Under Medical Guidance):
Initial dose: 400mg (2 tablets)
Follow-up: 200-400mg every 4-6 hours (max 2400mg/day in exceptional cases).
Important Points:
Do not overdose (risk of stomach ulcers, kidney injury).
Take with milk/food to minimize stomach irritation.
Avoid prolonged use without consulting a doctor.
4. When to Use Stronger Alternatives?
If Brufen 200mg fails to ease bad pain, try:
A. Higher-Dose Ibuprofen (400mg, 600mg)
Better for immediate pain.
In prescription form.
B. Other NSAIDs (Stronger Options)
Naproxen (500mg) – Longer action (8-12 hours).
Diclofenac (50-100mg) – More powerful anti-inflammatory action.
C. Opioids (For Very Severe Pain)
Codeine, Tramadol – For short-term bad pain (e.g., after surgery).
Morphine (Hospital only) – For very severe cases.
D. Combination Painkillers
Ibuprofen + Paracetamol – More pain relief.
Ibuprofen + Caffeine – Best for migraines.
5. Brufen 200mg Risks & Side Effects
Although Brufen 200mg is safe, abuse leads to:
Stomach ulcers & bleeding (long-term use or on an empty stomach).
Kidney damage (high doses or when dehydrated).
Heart risks (overuse, particularly in heart patients).
Allergic reactions (rash, swelling – get help promptly).
Who Shouldn't Take Brufen 200mg?
Asthma, kidney disease, or heart disease patients.
Pregnant females (particularly the 3rd trimester).
Those taking blood thinners (e.g., aspirin, warfarin).
6. Last Word: Is Brufen 200mg Sufficient for Severe Pain?
For mild to moderate pain: Yes, Brufen 200mg is adequate.
For severe pain: Usually inadequate alone—greater doses (400-600mg) or more powerful medication may be required.
Best used as directed—do not self-prescribe for long-term severe pain.
When to Consult a Doctor?
If pain continues after 3 days.
If you require repeated high doses to obtain relief.
If you notice serious side effects.
Conclusion
Brufen 200mg is a trusty painkiller for day-to-day aches, but serious pain might need more intense treatment. Always take as directed and see a doctor if the pain intensifies.