NSAID that reduces pain, fever, and inflammation by blocking prostaglandin production.
Patients with inflammatory conditions, arthritis, severe menstrual cramps, muscle strains, or those needing anti-inflammatory action
Analgesic and antipyretic that reduces pain and fever without anti-inflammatory effects.
Patients with sensitive stomachs, GI ulcers, those taking blood thinners, patients unable to tolerate NSAIDs, and those requiring pain/fever relief without anti-inflammatory needs
Ibuprofen is superior for inflammatory conditions like arthritis and menstrual cramps due to its anti-inflammatory properties, while acetaminophen is better for patients who cannot tolerate NSAIDs or have certain medical conditions. Both effectively reduce pain and fever, but they work through different mechanisms and carry different risk profiles.
Choose ibuprofen if you have inflammatory conditions like arthritis, menstrual cramps, or muscular inflammation. Choose acetaminophen if you have a sensitive stomach, are at risk for GI bleeding, cannot take NSAIDs, or need a medication with fewer drug interactions. Both are effective for general pain and fever management; selection depends on your specific health profile and underlying conditions.
Choose Ibuprofen if
Patients with inflammatory conditions, arthritis, severe menstrual cramps, muscle strains, or those needing anti-inflammatory action
| Metric | Ibuprofen | Acetaminophen | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anti-inflammatory Strength(Scale 1-10) | Strong | None | — |
| Duration of Action(hours) | 4-6 hours | 3-4 hours | +43% |
| Drug Interaction Risk(Risk Level) | Moderate | Low |
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Choose Acetaminophen if
Patients with sensitive stomachs, GI ulcers, those taking blood thinners, patients unable to tolerate NSAIDs, and those requiring pain/fever relief without anti-inflammatory needs
| +200% |
| Maximum Daily Dose(mg) | 3200 mg | 3000-4000 mg | -9% |
| Typical Single Dose(mg) | 200-400 mg | 325-650 mg | -40% |
All figures sourced from publicly available data. Last updated May 2026.
Ibuprofen
Yes - reduces inflammation via COX-1/COX-2 inhibition🏆
Acetaminophen
No - only reduces pain and fever
Ibuprofen
NSAID - blocks prostaglandin production
Acetaminophen
Analgesic/antipyretic - affects pain perception
Ibuprofen
Higher risk of ulcers and GI bleeding
Acetaminophen
Safer for stomach lining🏆
Ibuprofen
Generally safe at recommended doses🏆
Acetaminophen
Risk of hepatotoxicity at high doses
Ibuprofen
Avoid in third trimester
Acetaminophen
Previously considered safe but declining usage as of 2026
Ibuprofen
Moderate - interacts with blood thinners and other NSAIDs
Acetaminophen
Low - fewer significant interactions🏆
Ibuprofen
Excellent - primary anti-inflammatory effect🏆
Acetaminophen
Poor - no anti-inflammatory benefit
Ibuprofen
No official FDA shortage
Acetaminophen
No official FDA shortage
Yes, some healthcare providers recommend alternating between the two medications to treat different aspects of pain, as they work through different mechanisms. However, never exceed recommended doses for either medication, and consult your doctor before combining them regularly. This approach can be particularly useful for severe pain management.
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| Attribute | Ibuprofen | Acetaminophen |
|---|---|---|
| Pain Relief Efficacy | Excellent | Excellent |
| Fever Reduction | Excellent | Excellent |
| Anti-inflammatory Strength(Scale 1-10) | Strong | None |
| Duration of Action(hours) | 4-6 hours | 3-4 hours |
| GI Safety Risk(Risk Level) | High | Low |
| Liver Safety at Recommended Doses(Safety Rating) | Safe | Caution - overdose risk |
| Drug Interaction Risk(Risk Level) | Moderate | Low |
| Cardiovascular Risk(Risk Level) | Increased with long-term use | Minimal |
| Pregnancy Safety(Trimester Classification) | Avoid 3rd trimester | Previously safe, declining use 2026 |
| Maximum Daily Dose(mg) | 3200 mg | 3000-4000 mg |
| Typical Single Dose(mg) | 200-400 mg | 325-650 mg |
| FDA Supply Status (March 2026) | No shortage | No shortage |
Side-by-side comparison of numeric attributes