[623] ‘Cheaper is not better - effects of coloured ibuprofen (February 2008)

My reaction to red coloured ibuprofen is an insidious slowly building feeling of being unwell, stuffy head like the flu, but no nasal symptoms, and a queasy stomach like eaten too much rich food. The effect is slow growing over several days. When I stop the coloured ibuprofen it takes several days for the symptoms to clear up till I feel well again. It was difficult to diagnose. I have learned much of the last five years thanks to your work. When I take the white Brufen I am OK. The red ones were available on prescription thus cheaper but as I found out cheaper is not better. To get the right dose (200 mg) I take half a white tablet. – Steve, by email