Published on November 29, 2018
Tylenol & Advil – When to Use Which
Do you know the difference between acetaminophen and ibuprofen? Or when to use which? MercyCare can help.
Acetaminophen is often known as Tylenol or other brand names. It is classified as a pain reliever (analgesic) and fever reducer (antipyretic).
Ibuprofen is often known by its given name, but you may also know it as Advil or Motrin. It is classified as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Other members of this drug class include aspirin and naproxen (Aleve).
As you may have guessed from the descriptions above, acetaminophen is best used for fever, aches and pains, but will not be very helpful if the pain is due to inflammation. Ibuprofen is more helpful for these symptoms when inflammation is the cause. Inflammation examples include menstrual cramps and arthritis.
Side Effects
Both medications are available over the counter (OTC) and in brand name or generic forms. Both could cause side effects like rash, nausea and headache, but they also have separate side effects:
- Acetaminophen may cause side effects such as hypersensitivity reactions, skin reactions, kidney damage, anemia, reduced number of platelets in the blood, or liver failure. Unless directed by a physician, acetaminophen should not be used for longer than 10 days.
- Ibuprofen may cause side effects such as ringing in the ears, dizziness, drowsiness, abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation or heartburn. NSAIDs also reduce the ability of blood to clot, therefore increasing possible bleeding after an injury. Those with asthma are more likely to experience allergic reactions to ibuprofen and other NSAIDs.
Please note: Acetaminophen is shown to be safe for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers. Ibuprofen is not recommended during pregnancy but is safe during breastfeeding.
Be sure to ask your primary care provider about any interactions that acetaminophen or ibuprofen could have with other drugs you take.
If you have further questions or concerns regarding these common medications, talk to your primary care provider or pediatrician. If you need help finding a primary care provider, complete our secure, confidential Find A Doc form.
Recommended Dosages
Acetaminophen
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Ibuprofen
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Adults: 325 to 650 mg every 4 hours, or 500 mg every 8 hours if using immediate release formula.
For extended release caplets, 1300 mg every 8 hours. |
Adults: For mild to moderate pain, 200-400 mg every 4-6 hours.
For arthritis, 300-800 mg, 3-4 times/day.
Maximum daily dose is 1.2 grams. If a physician is supervising, they may allow up to 3.2 grams/day.
Do not use ibuprofen for more than 10 days for pain or more than 3 days for fever unless directed by a physician. |
| Children 12-17: 40-60 mg/kg of weight every 6 hours (not to exceed 3.75 g or 5 doses/day). |
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| Children younger than 12: 10-15 mg per kg of weight every 6-8 hours (not to exceed 2.6 g or 5 doses/day). |
Children 6 months to 12 years: 5-10 mg/kg of weight every 6-8 hours (not to exceed 40 mg/kg daily). |
