Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are some of the pain relievers available over-the-counter. Acetaminophen is a pain reliever and fever reducer. Ibuprofen is a type of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine (NSAID) that can be used to treat pain, fever, and inflammation. What if you want the benefits of both? Is it safe to take Tylenol and Ibuprofen together?
Taking Tylenol and Ibuprofen together is safe!
Using acetaminophen and ibuprofen separately or together for brief periods of time generally is safe as long as the recommended dosage is followed. Certain health conditions and medications may make these medicines unsafe for use without the supervision of a medical provider.
Tylenol (Acetaminophen)
In the United States, acetaminophen is the most often used medication ingredient. Acetaminophen is found in over 600 different drugs. These include both prescription and non-prescription medications, generally known as “over-the-counter” or “OTC” medications. It is important to read the labels on every product you use to detect whether your medicines contain acetaminophen and avoid acetaminophen overdose. Many cough and cold medications contain acetaminophen. The maximum amount of acetaminophen someone should consume in 24 hours is 4000mg amongst all products to avoid toxicity to the liver. Some doctors recommend a lower maximum of 3000mg for certain people. If you have liver problems, talk to your provider before taking acetaminophen.
Acetaminophen is used to treat mild to moderate discomfort from headaches, muscle pains, menstrual periods, colds and sore throats, toothaches, backaches, and vaccination (shot) responses and lower fever. Acetaminophen can also be used to treat osteoarthritis pain, this is a form of arthritis caused by the breakdown of the lining of the joints.
Acetaminophen is available in the form of a tablet, chewable tablet, capsule, suspension or solution (liquid), extended-release (long-acting) tablet, an orally disintegrating tablet. It can be taken with or without food. Although acetaminophen is accessible without a prescription, your doctor may prescribe it for specific conditions.
Ibuprofen
Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine (NSAID) that relieves the symptoms of arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or juvenile arthritis), including inflammation, edema, stiffness, and joint pain. This medication does not cure arthritis, and it will only benefit you as long as you take it. Ibuprofen also can be used to treat fever, menstrual cramps, and other illnesses. If you have kidney problems or take anti-coagulant or anti-platelet medications (sometimes called “blood thinners”), talk to your provider before taking ibuprofen. NSAIDs (including ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin) can increase the risk of ulcers and stomach or intestinal bleeding.
Ibuprofen comes in tablets, chewable tablets, capsules, and suspension.
Brand Name medications containing ibuprofen:
Addaprin
Advil
Midol
A-G Profen
Bufen
Genpril
Haltran
Motrin
Nuprin
Proprinal
Q-Profen
Ibuprofen is available in both OTC and by prescription. Speak to your doctor before taking any medications, especially if you’re not sure whether it is safe for you to take. Taking Tylenol and ibuprofen together can be done for short periods of time at the recommended dosage. Speak with your doctor if you are on any other medications.
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Resources:
“FDA approves combination ibuprofen-acetaminophen drug for U.S.” American Dental Association, 11 June 2021, https://www.ada.org/en/publications/ada-news/2020-archive/march/fda-approves-combination-ibuprofen-acetaminophen-drug-for-us
“What’s the Difference Between Tylenol, Advil and Aleve?” HSS, 11 June 2021, https://www.hss.edu/pediatrics-difference-between-tylenol-advil-aleve.asp
“Ibuprofen (Oral Route)” The Mayo Clinic, 11 June 2021, https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/ibuprofen-oral-route/description/drg-20070602
“Medicines Containing Acetaminophen” BeMedWise, 11 June 2021, https://www.bemedwise.org/health-research-and-reports/health-resources-and-toolkits/acetaminophen/acetaminophen-containing/
