IBUPROFEN VS PARACETAMOL

Paracetamol (aka Acetaminophen)

Paracetamol - otherwise known as acetaminophen - is a mild pain killer (analgaesic), but it also acts to reduce fevers (antipyretic). The exact mechanism of action of Paracetamol is as yet unconfirmed, although scientists are currently working on various hypotheses. Paracetamol should be used to reduce pain caused by toothache, headaches, joint and muscle pain - such as mild arthritis pain.

Paracetamol does not need to be taken after food and can usually be safely taken with other medications. It is possible to take paracetamol and ibuprofen at the same time, as they work in the body in different ways.

 In cases of severe pain, both ibuprofen and paracetamol can be taken at the same time, as they work to relieve pain in different ways

Paracetamol is available in a variety of forms; it is most commonly taken as a 500mg capsule or 500mg tablet; however it can be taken as a liquid for children and can even be given intravenously in hospitals. It is safe for children to take paracetamol at the appropriate dose for children.

Paracetamol in pregnancy

There is no evidence to suggest that paracetamol is harmful to take during pregnancy. Many pregnant women take paracetamol for pain relief during pregnancy. It's also safe for breast feeding mothers to take paracetamol.

If you suffer from liver or kidney problems it is important to consult your doctor before taking paracetamol, since paracetamol is predominantly broken down by the liver.

Paracetamol interraction with other medications

There are a number of drugs that if you are taking then you should avoid taking paracetamol as well:

• Carbamazepine
  • Treatment for epilepsy and nerve pain
• Warfarin
  • Blood thinner
• Phenytoin
  • Anti-epileptic medication
• Metoclopramide
  • Common treatment for heartburn, nausea and vomiting

Paracetamol can interract with other medications - always check the medication's leaflet before taking a new medication or combination of medications

Paracetamol side effects

Side effects that occur as a result of taking paracetamol are rare, but the most common side effects of paracetamol are:

• Allergic reactions, these can cause swelling and a rash
• Blood disorders
• Heart irregularities – low blood pressure (this happens most commonly when paracetamol is given intravenously)

Paracetamol overdose

Overdose of paracetamol is potentially very harmful, and anyone who thinks they may have taken too much paracetamol should seek urgent medical attention. Since paracetamol is mainly broken down by the liver, overdose can lead to acute liver damage (hepatotoxicity).

When taking cold remedies, it's important to be aware that these commonly contain paracetamol too. Taking both cold treatments and extra paracetamol tablets for example should be avoided, to prevent the risk of accidental paracetamol overdose.

Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen is used in a very similar way to paracetamol; it treats pain but can also be used to treat fever. The main difference is that ibuprofen reduces inflammation. Ibuprofen is a type of drug called a non-steroidal anti inflammatory (NSAID). This means that ibuprofen will reduce inflammation. In the body, inflammation occurs for a variety of reasons: it may be a sign of infection or it is the body's response to damage.

Although the pain-reducing effect will occur shortly after taking the drug, the anti-inflammatory component can take weeks to work optimally.

Ibuprofen is available in a number of different forms: capsules, tablets, sprays, gels and creams. Ibuprofen gel is a popular remedy to back pain and muscle pains, as they provide effective, local pain relief.

Ibuprofen gels and creams are effected for local relief of back and muscle pains

Can I take Ibuprofen?

Unlike paracetamol not everyone is able to take ibuprofen. The following people should avoid taking ibuprofen:

• Allergic (hypersensitive) to other NSAIDs
• Those suffering from a stomach ulcer
• Suffer from heart failure
• Liver disease patients

These people should avoid taking ibuprofen altogether.

People with the following conditions may take ibuprofen, but have to be cautious:

• Kidney problems or liver problems
• Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) patients
• Ulcerative colitis
• Asthma
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• If you have suffered a stroke previously

Ibuprofen in pregnancy

Pregnant women should always take advice from a doctor before taking any medications. During pregnancy, paracetamol is generally a more appropriate painkiller.

Ibuprofen should be completely avoided in the third trimester of pregnancy, as it can affect the foetal heart.

Pregnant women should avoid ibuprofen during the third trimester, as there is a risk of damage to the baby's heart

Ibuprofen interractions with other medications

Ibuprofen can interact unpredictably with drugs therefore it is very important that before taking ibuprofen you check that the other medications that you may be taking do not have any interaction.

Ibuprofen side effects

Ibuprofen has a larger number of side effects than paracetamol:

• Nausea
• Bowel habit alterations
• Abdominal pain
• Headache
• Raised blood pressure
• Gastritis

Overall, both paracetamol and ibuprofen are wonderful drugs that can relieve pain quickly and can be easily accessed over-the-counter of a pharmacy. It is important to be aware of which is the more appropriate drug to be taking depending on the nature of your pain. Always make sure you read the drug leaflets to be conscious of drug interactions, side effects and dosages. If you feel unwell following taking either of the pain killers contact a Private GP or online doctor as soon as possible. London Doctors Clinic offers 15 minute appointments from £89.

 By George Wall