Tylenol and ibuprofen are both used to treat pain, inflammation, and fever, but they are not the same medication.
- Tylenol is the brand name for acetaminophen, an analgesic (pain reliever) and antipyretic (fever reducer) used for treating pain and fever associated with many conditions.
- Ibuprofen (brand names: Advil, Motrin) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat mild to moderate pain, fever, and inflammation.
- Both Tylenol and ibuprofen are available as generics and over-the-counter (OTC).
What Are Side Effects of Tylenol and Ibuprofen?
Side effects of Tylenol and ibuprofen that are similar include:
Additional side effects of Tylenol include:
- Stomach pain
- Loss of appetite
- Itching
- Dark urine
- Clay-colored stools
- Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Hypersensitivity reactions
- Serious skin reactions
- Kidney damage
- Anemia
- Reduced number of platelets in the blood (thrombocytopenia).
Additional side effects of ibuprofen include:
What Are Drug Interactions of Tylenol and Ibuprofen?
Both Tylenol and ibuprofen may interact with:
- Aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Blood pressure medicines
Tylenol may also interact with:
- Antibiotics
- Antifungals
- Sulfa drugs
- Tuberculosis medicines
- Birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy
- Cancer medications
- Cholesterol-lowering medications
- Gout or arthritis medications (including gold injections)
- HIV/AIDS medications
- Medicines to treat psychiatric disorders
- Seizure medications
Ibuprofen may also interact with:
- Antidepressants
- Heart medicines
- Lithium
- Diuretics (water pills)
- Methotrexate
- Steroids
- Blood thinners
Can Tylenol and Ibuprofen Be Used During Pregnancy or While Breastfeeding?
Tylenol may be acceptable to use during pregnancy for short-term use. Tylenol passes into breast milk but it is considered compatible with breastfeeding. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or become pregnant while using ibuprofen. It is especially important not to use ibuprofen during the last 3 months of pregnancy unless directed to do so by a doctor because it may cause problems in the unborn child or complications during delivery. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
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https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/ibuprofen-drug-facts-label