Acetaminophen + Ibuprofen
Find more information about this combination medication at the webpages for ibuprofen
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Advisory
- This medicine contains a combination of 2 drugs acetaminophen and ibuprofen.
- acetaminophen and ibuprofen are both used to treat the same disease or symptom but work in different ways in the body.
- Most doctors will advise making sure that each individual medicine is safe and effective before using a combination form.
Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
YES
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug
Controlled Drug Substance
No
acetaminophen + ibuprofen
Summary
Acetaminophen is used to relieve mild to moderate pain, such as headaches, muscle aches, and toothaches, and to reduce fever. It is gentle on the stomach, making it suitable for those with stomach issues. Ibuprofen is used for similar pain relief and fever reduction but also effectively reduces inflammation, which is swelling and redness, making it ideal for conditions like arthritis and sprains.
Acetaminophen works by blocking the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals in the brain that cause pain and fever. It is gentle on the stomach. Ibuprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), reduces pain, fever, and inflammation by inhibiting enzymes that produce prostaglandins, thus addressing swelling and redness.
For acetaminophen, the usual adult dose is 325 to 650 milligrams every 4 to 6 hours, not exceeding 3,000 to 4,000 milligrams per day. It can be taken with or without food. Ibuprofen is typically taken at 200 to 400 milligrams every 4 to 6 hours, with a maximum of 1,200 milligrams per day for over-the-counter use, and is best taken with food to prevent stomach upset.
Acetaminophen is generally well-tolerated but can cause nausea and rash. A significant risk is liver damage, especially with high doses or alcohol use. Ibuprofen can cause stomach pain, heartburn, and dizziness. Serious effects include stomach ulcers, bleeding, and kidney damage. Both can cause allergic reactions, such as swelling and difficulty breathing.
Acetaminophen should be used cautiously with other liver-affecting drugs and avoided with alcohol to prevent liver damage. Ibuprofen can interact with blood thinners, increasing bleeding risk, and affect blood pressure medications. It may cause stomach bleeding, especially in older adults or those with ulcers. Pregnant women should consult a doctor before using either medication.
Indications and Purpose
How does combination of acetaminophen and ibuprofen work?
Acetaminophen, which is a pain reliever and fever reducer, works by blocking the production of certain chemicals in the brain that signal pain and regulate body temperature. It is often used for mild to moderate pain and is gentle on the stomach. Ibuprofen, which is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), reduces pain, fever, and inflammation by blocking the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals that promote inflammation, pain, and fever. It is effective for conditions like arthritis and menstrual cramps. Both acetaminophen and ibuprofen help reduce pain and fever, but they work in different ways. Acetaminophen is less likely to cause stomach issues, while ibuprofen also reduces inflammation. It's important to use them as directed to avoid side effects.
How effective is combination of acetaminophen and ibuprofen?
Acetaminophen, which is a pain reliever and fever reducer, works effectively by blocking the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals in the body that cause pain and inflammation. It is often used for mild to moderate pain, such as headaches and muscle aches. Ibuprofen, which is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), also reduces pain and inflammation by inhibiting the same prostaglandins. It is particularly effective for conditions involving inflammation, like arthritis. Both acetaminophen and ibuprofen are effective in reducing fever and relieving pain. They are commonly used for similar conditions, such as headaches, toothaches, and menstrual cramps. However, ibuprofen has the added benefit of reducing inflammation, which makes it more suitable for conditions like sprains or arthritis. Acetaminophen is often preferred for individuals who cannot take NSAIDs due to stomach issues or other contraindications.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of combination of acetaminophen and ibuprofen?
The usual adult daily dose for acetaminophen, which is a pain reliever and fever reducer, is typically 325 to 650 milligrams every 4 to 6 hours, not exceeding 3,000 to 4,000 milligrams per day. For ibuprofen, which is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces pain, inflammation, and fever, the usual dose is 200 to 400 milligrams every 4 to 6 hours, with a maximum of 1,200 milligrams per day for over-the-counter use. Acetaminophen is unique because it is less likely to cause stomach irritation, which refers to discomfort or pain in the stomach area, compared to ibuprofen. Ibuprofen, on the other hand, is effective in reducing inflammation, which is the body's response to injury or infection, something acetaminophen does not do. Both medicines are used to relieve pain and reduce fever, which is an elevated body temperature. They are commonly used for headaches, muscle aches, and other minor pains.
How does one take combination of acetaminophen and ibuprofen?
Acetaminophen, which is a pain reliever and fever reducer, can be taken with or without food. There are no specific food restrictions when taking acetaminophen. However, it's important to avoid alcohol as it can increase the risk of liver damage. Ibuprofen, which is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation, is best taken with food or milk to help prevent stomach upset. Like acetaminophen, it's advisable to avoid alcohol while taking ibuprofen to reduce the risk of stomach bleeding. Both acetaminophen and ibuprofen are used to relieve pain and reduce fever, but they work in different ways. It's important to follow the dosage instructions on the label or as prescribed by a healthcare provider to avoid potential side effects. Always consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or questions about using these medications.
For how long is combination of acetaminophen and ibuprofen taken?
Acetaminophen, which is a pain reliever and fever reducer, is typically used for short-term relief of mild to moderate pain. It is often recommended for use over a few days, but not more than 10 days for pain or 3 days for fever without consulting a doctor. Ibuprofen, which is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is also used for short-term relief of pain and inflammation. It is generally used for a similar duration, not exceeding 10 days for pain or 3 days for fever without medical advice. Both acetaminophen and ibuprofen are used to relieve pain and reduce fever. However, ibuprofen also reduces inflammation, which is swelling and redness. Acetaminophen is often preferred for people who cannot take NSAIDs due to stomach issues. Both should be used as directed to avoid side effects.
How long does it take for combination of acetaminophen and ibuprofen to work?
The time it takes for a combination medicine to start working depends on the individual medicines involved. For example, if the combination includes ibuprofen, which is a pain reliever and anti-inflammatory drug, it typically starts working within 20 to 30 minutes. If the combination includes paracetamol, which is another pain reliever, it usually begins to work within 30 to 60 minutes. Both medicines are used to relieve pain and reduce fever, which means they share these common attributes. However, ibuprofen also reduces inflammation, which is swelling and redness, while paracetamol does not. When combined, these medicines can provide a broader range of relief, addressing both pain and inflammation more effectively. Always follow the dosage instructions provided by a healthcare professional.
Warnings and Precautions
Are there harms and risks from taking combination of acetaminophen and ibuprofen?
Acetaminophen, which is a pain reliever and fever reducer, is generally well-tolerated but can cause side effects like nausea and rash. A significant adverse effect is liver damage, especially if taken in high doses or with alcohol. Ibuprofen, which is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), can cause stomach pain, heartburn, and dizziness. Serious adverse effects include stomach ulcers, bleeding, and kidney damage. Both medications can cause allergic reactions, which may include symptoms like swelling and difficulty breathing. While acetaminophen is often preferred for those with stomach issues, ibuprofen is more effective for inflammation. Both are used to relieve pain and reduce fever, but they work differently in the body. It's important to use them as directed to minimize risks.
Can I take combination of acetaminophen and ibuprofen with other prescription drugs?
Acetaminophen, which is a pain reliever and fever reducer, can interact with other medications that affect the liver, such as certain antibiotics and anti-seizure drugs. It is important to avoid alcohol while taking acetaminophen, as it can increase the risk of liver damage. Ibuprofen, which is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), can interact with blood thinners, increasing the risk of bleeding. It can also affect blood pressure medications, reducing their effectiveness. Both acetaminophen and ibuprofen are used to relieve pain and reduce fever, but they work in different ways. Acetaminophen is generally considered safer for the stomach, while ibuprofen can cause stomach irritation or ulcers. Both drugs should be used cautiously with other medications, and it is important to follow dosing instructions to avoid potential side effects. Always consult a healthcare provider before combining these medications with others.
Can I take combination of acetaminophen and ibuprofen if I am pregnant?
Acetaminophen, which is a pain reliever and fever reducer, is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy. It is often recommended for short-term use to manage mild to moderate pain or fever. However, it is important to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible. Ibuprofen, which is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester. It can cause complications such as reduced amniotic fluid and issues with the baby's heart and kidneys. Both acetaminophen and ibuprofen are used to relieve pain and reduce fever, but they work differently in the body. Acetaminophen is usually preferred during pregnancy due to its safety profile. Always consult a healthcare provider before taking any medication during pregnancy to ensure it is safe for both the mother and the baby.
Can I take combination of acetaminophen and ibuprofen while breastfeeding?
Acetaminophen, which is a pain reliever and fever reducer, is generally considered safe for use during breastfeeding. It passes into breast milk in small amounts, but it is unlikely to harm a nursing baby. Ibuprofen, which is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to reduce pain, inflammation, and fever, is also considered safe during breastfeeding. It is present in breast milk in very low levels and is unlikely to affect the infant. Both acetaminophen and ibuprofen are commonly used by breastfeeding mothers to manage pain and fever. They share the attribute of being safe for short-term use during lactation. However, acetaminophen is often preferred for its lower risk of causing stomach upset, while ibuprofen is favored for its anti-inflammatory properties. Always consult a healthcare provider before using any medication while breastfeeding to ensure it is appropriate for your specific situation.
Who should avoid taking combination of acetaminophen and ibuprofen?
Acetaminophen, which is a pain reliever and fever reducer, can cause liver damage if taken in high doses or combined with alcohol. People with liver disease should avoid it. Ibuprofen, which is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), can cause stomach bleeding, especially in older adults or those with a history of ulcers. It may also increase the risk of heart attack or stroke if used long-term. Both medications can cause allergic reactions, so people with known allergies should be cautious. They should not be mixed without medical advice, as this can increase the risk of side effects. Pregnant women should consult a doctor before using either medication. Always follow the recommended dosage and consult a healthcare provider if unsure.
