Paracetamol vs Ibuprofen.jpg
Which Is Better for Fever & Pain?
Both Paracetamol and Ibuprofen are widely used for fever and pain relief — but people often get confused about which one to take, when, and why.
As a pharmacist, I’ll break down the differences clearly so you can make a safe and smart choice.
💊 What Is Paracetamol?
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Also known as: Acetaminophen
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Type: Antipyretic (fever-reducer) & mild analgesic
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Common Uses:
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Fever
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Headache
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Mild body pain
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Post-vaccination fever
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Safe during pregnancy (if advised)
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💊 What Is Ibuprofen?
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Type: NSAID (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug)
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Common Uses:
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Fever
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Inflammation
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Muscle pain, toothache, sprain
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Period pain
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Joint pain like arthritis
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⚖️ Key Differences Between Paracetamol and Ibuprofen
| Feature | Paracetamol | Ibuprofen |
|---|---|---|
| Fever Control | ✅ Effective | ✅ Effective |
| Pain Relief | ✅ Mild | ✅ Stronger |
| Anti-inflammatory | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Stomach Safety | ✅ Gentle | ❌ Can cause acidity |
| Dose (Adult) | 500–1000 mg every 6 hrs | 200–400 mg every 6–8 hrs |
| Kid Safe (with advice) | ✅ Yes (drops/syrup) | ✅ Yes (correct dose needed) |
| Pregnancy Safe | ✅ Safer option | ❌ Use only if prescribed |
✅ Which One Should You Take?
🔹 For simple fever or headache? → Paracetamol
🔹 For muscle, period, or joint pain? → Ibuprofen
🔹 For fever + inflammation (e.g. sore throat)? → Ibuprofen
🔹 If you have acidity/gastric issues? → Paracetamol is safer
⚠️ Side Effects
Paracetamol:
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Rare liver risk (if overdose)
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Usually safe in recommended dose
Ibuprofen:
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Gastric irritation
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Nausea or heartburn
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Kidney strain (in long-term/high dose)
⚠️ Never mix both without medical advice.
🧠 Pharmacist Advice
Both Paracetamol and Ibuprofen are effective — but knowing when to use which can protect your health and give faster relief.
Always read labels and follow correct dosage.
Both Paracetamol and Ibuprofen are effective — but knowing when and how to use them safely is key.
✅ Adult Dosage:
| Medicine | Dosage |
|---|---|
| Paracetamol | 500–1000 mg every 6 hours (Max 4g/day) |
| Ibuprofen | 200–400 mg every 6–8 hours (Max 1200 mg/day without doctor supervision) |
👶 Kids Dosage (General Guide):
| Age Group | Paracetamol | Ibuprofen |
|---|---|---|
| 6 months–2 yrs | 80–120 mg every 4–6 hrs | 50–100 mg every 6–8 hrs |
| 2–5 years | 120–250 mg every 4–6 hrs | 100 mg every 6–8 hrs |
| 6–12 years | 250–500 mg every 4–6 hrs | 200 mg every 6–8 hrs |
⚠️ Always check packaging or consult a doctor/pharmacist before giving to children. Doses depend on weight.
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👉 Paracetamol
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👉 Ibuprofen
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Tip: Always take multivitamins after food and consult a healthcare provider if you're on medication.
🙋 FAQ Section
Q. Can I take Paracetamol and Ibuprofen together?
Only if prescribed. Doctors sometimes alternate them in high fever.
Q. Which is faster for pain?
Ibuprofen acts faster in muscle or period pain. Paracetamol is enough for mild pain or fever.
Q. Is it okay to take Ibuprofen on an empty stomach?
❌ No. Always take it after food to avoid acidity or stomach damage.