This article provides an overview of how each drug works and compares their effects, maximum doses, safety information, and when to choose one.
Ibuprofen was developed in 1961 by a British pharmacologist and researcher. It belongs to a class of drugs called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Available in the United States since 1974, ibuprofen is one of the most commonly used pain relievers (pain relievers) and antipyretics (fever-reducing) drugs.
Like other NSAIDs, ibuprofen is anti-inflammatory and calms the immune system’s response to injury or infection (inflammation). Specifically, it prevents cells from producing prostaglandins, compounds that cause inflammation, by inhibiting the activity of two enzymes, cyclooxygenase (COX) 1 and 2. Pain-relieving and antipyretic effects appear as inflammation decreases.
Ibuprofen temporarily relieves minor pain in a variety of conditions, including the following:
Like any medication, it is important to use ibuprofen only as directed. Taking too much may increase the chance of adverse reactions such as stroke or heart attack and may cause stomach bleeding.
The maximum daily dose depends on whether you are taking ibuprofen with a prescription or over the counter. The maximum daily dose of over-the-counter ibuprofen for adults and adolescents is 3200 milligrams (mg), the maximum dose for young children is based on body weight.
Ibuprofen has different strengths, so read the label carefully and ask your supplier if you have any questions.
Although acetaminophen was first discovered in 1889, it was not used clinically until 1956. Since then, acetaminophen (Tylenol) has become the most popular drug in the world. Unlike ibuprofen, acetaminophen is not an NSAID, but an analgesic and antipyretic.
Acetaminophen is part of an over-the-counter combination drug sold under several names. Common drug brands that may contain acetaminophen include:
Researchers dispute the exact mechanism of action of this drug due to the complexity of its metabolism (digestion) in the body. Some believe that it inhibits the production of COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes by cells, similar to ibuprofen. This reduces inflammation.
However, some studies point to more direct mechanisms. Acetaminophen is believed to act on two receptors in the brain regions responsible for information transmission (midbrain) and (medulla oblongata). These receptors are involved in the brain’s processing of pain.
High doses of acetaminophen can damage the liver, which plays a central role in drug metabolism. The maximum daily dose of this drug is 3250 mg for adults and 1625 mg for children. Severe liver damage can occur if:
It is worth noting that acetaminophen comes in different forms and dosages. Check the dosage carefully and use any medication only as directed. If you have taken more than the maximum recommended dose, seek medical attention immediately.
Ibuprofen and acetaminophen are safe for most people when taken correctly. However, there are several factors that can make taking ibuprofen unsafe, including:
With acetaminophen, the most notable risk is the potential effect on the liver. Thus, cirrhosis or liver disease can make it more dangerous and you should avoid it if you know you have an allergy.
Like other medicines, acetaminophen has some side effects. The most common of these are:
Also, if you are allergic to acetaminophen, taking it can cause anaphylactic shock, which is a medical emergency. Signs of this include:
While low doses are harmless, high doses of acetaminophen can affect liver function and lead to liver failure. It is responsible for nearly half of overdose-related acute liver failure in the United States.
Too much ibuprofen can damage and destroy the stomach lining, causing ulcers and bleeding. It can damage this part of the body more than acetaminophen. Ibuprofen may be more harmful to the kidneys than acetaminophen.
Ibuprofen is effective for pain and inflammation. In contrast, acetaminophen acts on the brain’s processing of pain. Both can reduce fever. What works best for pain and headaches associated with a cold, flu, or fever depends on personal preference.
However, ibuprofen may be better for treating conditions associated with swelling and inflammation, such as arthritis, muscle pain, physical injury, or menstrual cramps. Since acetaminophen is not an anti-inflammatory, it will not be as effective.
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil) are two of the most common pain and fever medications. Ibuprofen is a pain reliever and anti-inflammatory agent, while acetaminophen relieves pain. While both drugs are safe for most people when taken as directed, overuse of acetaminophen and ibuprofen can cause adverse reactions.
Since ibuprofen and acetaminophen belong to different drug classes, they can be safely taken together. It might be helpful if they are combined. In 2020, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved an over-the-counter combination drug called Dual Action.
Advil and Tylenol are effective for mild pain. However, some studies have shown that ibuprofen (Advil) is more effective than Tylenol. In reviews comparing the two drugs, ibuprofen was generally more effective than its counterpart (acetaminophen) in treating various types of pain.
After taking acetaminophen, the drug must enter the digestive system. Stay upright immediately after taking the medicine so that the medicine goes into the stomach. Lie down immediately after taking the tablets, they can get stuck in the throat and break down before proper ingestion. It can also damage the esophagus (esophagus) and cause irritation.
Post time: Jul-06-2023