OTC Pain Relief - Paracetamol or Ibuprofen?

Paracetamol and Ibuprofen are widely used over-the-counter pain-relieving medications (analgesics). While they both treat pain, each one works differently.

Because they provide pain relief in different ways, the one you should choose depends on the type of pain you are experiencing. In some cases, it might be appropriate to take a medication that contains both drugs.

In Australia, the common brands of OTC pain relief medicines are Panadol (paracetamol) and Nurofen (ibuprofen). Both are also sold under a range of generic brand names.

Paracetamol & Ibuprofen Are Used to Block Pain

Paracetamol

It is generally understood that paracetamol works by blocking the enzymes that produce prostaglandins and that it interacts with the brain’s endocannabinoid system and the “descending pain pathway”, which inhibits the perception of pain.

Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that acts by blocking the enzymes that produce chemicals that affect normal body functions, such as relaxing blood vessels, preventing blood clotting, secreting protective mucus in the gut, and facilitating uterine contractions. They are also involved in inflammation, pain, and fever.

OTC Paracetamol for Pain Relief

Paracetamol is effective for fevers and general pain, such as:

• Common headaches

• Fevers

• Pain from colds and flu

• Toothaches

Paracetamol is generally considered gentler on the stomach than ibuprofen and has fewer common side effects.

Caution - Paracetamol is a common ingredient in many medicines, including some cold and flu drugs, so it is important to check the active ingredients on the label of all your medicines to avoid ‘double dosing’

OTC Ibuprofen for Pain Relief

Ibuprofen is best used for pain associated with inflammation and swelling such as:

• Arthritic pain

• Muscle aches

• Dental pain

• Period pain

Ibuprofen may cause stomach problems or other issues in some people and is not recommended for pregnant women.

Get Professional Advice

If you are pregnant, have pre-existing health conditions (like stomach ulcers or heart problems), or taking other medications, you should speak to a doctor or pharmacist before taking either medication.

Regardless of which one you take, you must always follow the recommended dosage on the packaging or as advised by a healthcare/medical professional and never exceed the maximum dose.

But be wary of packaging that claims a product targets pain associated with a specific condition, as many of these claims are untrue.

---

Click to Subscribe to our Blog