What's the difference between ibuprofen and paracetamol?

Question

Which is best for my baby?

Answer 1

Paracetamol is often suggested by GPs and pharmacists as the first treatment you should try for easing a child's pain and fever. And because it's gentle on the tummy, you can give it to babies from 2 months* of age. Ibuprofen also works to relieve pain and fever but has anti-inflammatory properties too, which help to reduce swellings from sprains and strains. On fever, ibuprofen works quickly (starts to work within 15 minutes) and lasts up to 8 hours. It is suitable from 3 months plus*
"There are issues with people not knowing what's in their medicine. If someone has asthma, for example, then taking aspirin or ibuprofen could make it worse.
"And if someone is already taking medicine prescribed by their doctor then taking further painkillers could mean they inadvertently take an overdose."
paracetamol should be the "first choice painkiller"

Answer 2

Paracetamol, unlike other common analgesics such as aspirin and ibuprofen, has very little anti-inflammatory properties, and so it is not a member of the class of drugs known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). In recommended doses, paracetamol does not irritate the lining of the stomach, affect blood coagulation as much as NSAIDs, or affect function of the kidneys. However, some studies have shown that high dose-usage (greater than 2000 mg per day) does increase the risk of upper gastrointestinal complications.

Paracetamol is safe in pregnancy, and does not affect the closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus (as NSAIDs can). Unlike aspirin, it is safe in children as paracetamol is not associated with a risk of Reye's syndrome in children with viral illnesses.

Like NSAIDs and unlike opioid analgesics, paracetamol has not been found to cause euphoria or alter mood in any way. Paracetamol and NSAIDs have the benefit of bearing a low risk of addiction, dependence, tolerance and withdrawal, but, unlike opioid medications, may damage the liver; however, this is generally taken into account when compared to the danger of addiction.

Paracetamol, particularly in combination with weak opioids, is more likely than NSAIDs to cause rebound headache (medication overuse headache), although less of a risk than ergotamine or triptans used for migraines.

Answer 3

Paracetamol is better known as acetimonophen in the US. It is a pain reducer as well as a fever reducer.

Ibuprofen is in the NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) class, and is also used for reducing pain and fever.

Both drugs have their benefits and disadvantages. I would discuss them with your child's doctor.

Answer 4

if its for your baby definatley ask your doctor, he will give you what is best for your baby.