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Are There Risks to Taking Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen?

Woman taking a pill with a glass of water

Along with its intended effect, medications can cause unwanted reactions, also known as side effects.1 While side effects aren’t guaranteed, they may require medical attention if they occur.1 It’s important to know about the potential side effects before taking a medication, so you can contact your doctor if any arise. Here are the side effects associated with ibuprofen and acetaminophen.1

Potential Side Effects of Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).2 These drugs help relieve mild to moderate pain, fevers, inflammation and other related symptoms.2,4 Unlike acetaminophen, ibuprofen targets pain at the site of inflammation, making it more effective at treating pain associated with certain conditions.2 Ibuprofen is also less damaging to the liver compared to acetaminophen.6,7 However, like any medication, ibuprofen has some potential side effects, including:2

  • Heart risks: All non-aspirin NSAIDs, including ibuprofen, carry an FDA warning about increasing the risk of heart attack or stroke, which can occur in the first weeks of using the drug.
  • Kidney concerns: Individuals with chronic conditions like kidney disease or those taking blood thinners should consult a doctor before taking ibuprofen.
  • Pregnancy risks: Unless directed by their doctor, pregnant individuals in their third trimester should avoid NSAIDs to prevent potential harm to the fetus. Any use of ibuprofen before the third trimester should be under medical supervision.
  • Stomach issues: Short-term use of ibuprofen can cause stomach upset. It may also worsen heartburn or cause nausea or vomiting.

Potential Side Effects of Acetaminophen

Unlike ibuprofen, acetaminophen isn’t an NSAID.2 It’s used to help relieve mild-to-moderate pain and lower fevers. Acetaminophen reduces pain by raising your central nervous system’s pain threshold.2 While it doesn’t treat pain at the site of inflammation, it does tend to cause fewer stomach problems than other pain relievers like ibuprofen.2 Potential side effects can include:2

  • Liver damage: Exceeding the recommended dose of acetaminophen can lead to severe liver damage, sometimes requiring liver transplants. Combining acetaminophen with alcohol increases the risk of liver-related side effects.
  • Skin reactions: Although rare, acetaminophen has been linked to serious skin conditions. Anyone experiencing a rash or skin reaction should stop taking it and seek immediate medical attention.
  • Blood pressure: Recent studies show that using acetaminophen regularly can raise blood pressure, which can potentially increase the risk of heart disease and stroke, especially in individuals with hypertension.

Is Ibuprofen Safe?

Ibuprofen is widely used and is generally safe for most adults when taken correctly.3,8 Follow dosing instructions carefully and avoid taking too much of this medication or using it more than recommended.4 This is especially important for older patients, who may be more susceptible to unwanted side effects if the medication is misused.4

To minimize stomach upset, try taking ibuprofen with food or milk.4 By adhering to proper usage guidelines, ibuprofen can be a safe and effective pain reliever.4

Is Acetaminophen Safe?

Acetaminophen is a widely used medication found in over 600 prescription and over-the-counter products.5 When taken as directed, acetaminophen is an effective pain reliever.5 However, don’t exceed the recommended daily dosage, especially when using multiple medications that also contain acetaminophen.5

While both ibuprofen and acetaminophen are effective for managing pain and reducing fever, follow dosage instructions carefully to ensure proper use. If you have any questions or concerns, consult with your healthcare provider about taking these medications.

Source Citations:

  1. Ibuprofen And Acetaminophen (Oral Route) Side Effects. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/ibuprofen-and-acetaminophen-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20526898. Accessed 9/20/24.
  2. NSAIDs vs. Acetaminophen: Which Over-the-Counter Medicine Should I Use? News. Yale Medicine. https://www.yalemedicine.org/news/acetaminophen-nsaids-over-the-counter-pain-relievers. Accessed 9/20/24.
  3. Who can and cannot take or use ibuprofen. NHS. https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/ibuprofen-for-adults/who-can-and-cannot-take-ibuprofen/. Accessed 9/20/24.
  4. Ibuprofen (Oral Route) Precautions. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/ibuprofen-oral-route/precautions/drg-20070602?p=1. Accessed 9/20/24.
  5. Don’t Overuse Acetaminophen. FDA. https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/dont-overuse-acetaminophen. Accessed 9/20/24.
  6. Ibuprofen. NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK547845/. Accessed 10/14/2024.
  7. Careful: Acetaminophen in pain relief medicines can cause liver damage. FDA. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/safe-use-over-counter-pain-relievers-and-fever-reducers/careful-acetaminophen-pain-relief-medicines-can-cause-liver-damage. Accessed 10/14/2024.
  8. Ibuprofen. National Library of Medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK542299/. Accessed 10/14/2024.

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