Recently, claims have been circulating on social media that Nurofen, a popular pain relief medication, contains graphene oxide. These claims have sparked concern among consumers about potential health risks.
Social Media Posts
A claim circulating online alleges that Nurofen contains graphene oxide, a controversial material purported to be used in some medical products. This claim is accompanied by a video showing black particles exhibiting a magnetic reaction while a Nurofen pill dissolves.
The same claim and video has circulated on X platfrom also.
Fact-Check
Nurofen’s Response and Safety
Reckitt Benckiser, Nurofen’s manufacturer, has confirmed that the medication does not contain graphene oxide. The company clarified to Reuters that the black particles seen in some social media videos are actually black iron oxide, a common and safe coloring agent used in pharmaceuticals. A spokesperson explained that this ingredient was responsible for the magnetic reaction observed in the viral social media video, emphasizing that the ink contains neither graphene nor any similar substances.
The Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has verified that graphene oxide is not listed as an ingredient in any of the 24 Nurofen products approved by the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG). The TGA ensures that all ingredients used in medications are safe and compliant with regulatory standards.
Furthermore, regulatory agencies like the European Medicines Agency (EMA) have no record of graphene oxide being included in Nurofen or other ibuprofen-based medications. The ingredients in Nurofen formulations, including binders, coatings, and stabilizers, are publicly listed on the packaging and the company’s website.
Why Do Black Iron Oxide Particles Look Magnetic?
Black iron oxide, also known as magnetite, is naturally magnetic due to its atomic structure. When black iron oxide particles are present in a Nurofen tablet, they can be attracted to a magnet. This explains why they appear magnetic in videos showing dissolved Nurofen tablets. Magnetite is one of the most magnetic naturally occurring materials on Earth, with various applications including use in computer hard drives, magnetic fluids, and certain types of paint.
Therefore, when people observe black particles in dissolved Nurofen tablets being drawn to a magnet, it’s not indicative of anything harmful. It’s simply the black iron oxide behaving as expected—responding to a magnetic field.
What is Graphene Oxide?
Graphene oxide (GO) is a single atomic layer of graphite that has been oxidized to introduce oxygen-containing groups. This material retains graphite’s layered structure but with increased spacing between layers due to these functional groups. GO is versatile and used in various applications, including strong paper-like materials, membranes, and composites.
Graphene oxide can be toxic, with its effects varying based on size, shape, charge, and surface functional groups. Studies have shown that GO can cause oxidative stress, inflammation, and damage to cells and DNA in various cell types and animal models. However, its toxicity depends on how it’s used and the exposure conditions. Surface modifications can significantly reduce GO’s harmful interactions with living systems. Caution is necessary when handling GO, especially where inhalation or direct contact with large amounts is possible.
Nurofen’s Composition
Nurofen is a well-known brand of ibuprofen, which is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat pain, fever, and inflammation. The active ingredient in Nurofen is ibuprofen, and the inactive ingredients vary depending on the specific product formulation (e.g., tablets, gels, syrups). According to the official product documentation and ingredient lists available from trusted medical sources, Nurofen does not contain graphene oxide.
Summary
The claim that Nurofen contains graphene oxide is false. The black particles seen in videos are black iron oxide, a safe and approved coloring agent. Both the manufacturer and regulatory authorities have confirmed that graphene oxide is not an ingredient in Nurofen. Consumers can be assured of the safety and compliance of Nurofen’s ingredients.
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