Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are probably the most common medications on home drug shelves almost around the world, but while both can be used to relieve various types of pain, they have different properties and therefore it is not always the same to choose one or the other.
In addition, there are situations where medications cannot be used, such as in cases of pregnancy, liver problems or heart disease, for example.
- Therefore.
- The best way to find out which medication is best for relieving certain types of pain is to consult a GP before using either remedy.
Acetaminophen is an analgesic remedy that reduces pain by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are substances that are released in case of pain or injury, in this way the body is less aware that it is suffering, which generates a feeling of relief.
In case of fever, acetaminophen also has an antipyretic action that reduces body temperature and can therefore be used to fight fever in different situations, such as colds or flu.
Unlike most medications, acetaminophen is safe to use during pregnancy and should be the painkiller of choice for all pregnant women; However, in some cases, it can be contrasted during the first 3 months of pregnancy and should always consult the obstetrician in advance.
Although the use of acetaminophen appears harmless, it can cause serious damage and modifications to the liver when overused or for an extended period of time. For example, people with liver problems should only take this medicine with the guidance of a doctor who knows their history.
For example, before using acetaminophen, you can try using more natural options to lower your fever, such as Macela tea or Salgueiro-branco, learn how to make these teas and other natural remedies to lower your fever.
Ibuprofen also has a similar action to acetaminophen, helping to relieve pain by reducing the production of prostaglandins.However, the effect of this medicine is best when the pain is associated with inflammation, that is, when the site of the pain is swollen, such as a sore throat or muscle pain, for example.
When used for a long time, ibuprofen can irritate the stomach muscles, causing severe pain and even ulcers, so this remedy should be taken after meals, but if you need to take it for more than a week, you should talk to your doctor you should start using a stomach protector to protect yourself from ulcers.
Also discover some natural remedies that can replace ibuprofen and help relieve sore throats, for example.
Due to the risk of causing heart and kidney problems, ibuprofen should not be used without medical knowledge, especially in people with kidney disease, during pregnancy and in cases of heart disease, as it increases the risk of stroke in the person, so in the first week of treatment.
These two remedies can be used in the same treatment, however, they should not be taken at the same time, ideally taking at least 4 hours between each medication, that is, if you are taking acetaminophen, you should only take ibuprofen after 4 hours.hours, always alternating between the two medicines.
This type of treatment, with both medicines, should only be performed after age 16 and under the direction of a pediatrician or general practitioner.