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Compare Aleve vs. Tylenol

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Aleve (naproxen sodium) and Tylenol (acetaminophen) are both over-the-counter medications used to relieve pain and reduce fever, but have a few differences between them. Unlike Tylenol, Aleve also works to treat inflammation and swelling, and is typically taken every 6 to 8 hours. Tylenol doesn't last as long, and is usually taken every 4 to 6 hours. Common side effects of Aleve include stomach upset, dizziness, and headache. On the other hand, Tylenol has fewer side effects, but can cause liver damage if taken in high doses or with alcohol. Both medications are available as a lower-cost generic. Tylenol is available in many forms, including tablets, liquids, and suppositories, Aleve is only available as a tablet.

  • Naproxen sodium (Aleve)
    Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
  • Naproxen sodium (Aleve)
    Acetaminophen (Tylenol)

  • Summary of Aleve vs. Tylenol

    Summary for NSAID
    Prescription only

    Over-the-counter naproxen sodium (Aleve) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It can be taken by adults and children ages 12 years and older to ease minor aches and pains, and to relieve fever. Naproxen sodium (Aleve) works by blocking certain proteins in the body that cause inflammation and pain. Naproxen sodium (Aleve) is taken by mouth, typically every 6 to 8 hours. Common side effects of this medication include stomach upset, dizziness, headache. It's best to avoid drinking alcohol while taking naproxen sodium (Aleve) because doing so can worsen gut-related side effects.

    Summary for Analgesic

    Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is an over-the-counter (OTC) medication used to lower fever and relieve mild pain in adults and children. It's available in many strengths and formulations, such as tablets, chewable tablets, and liquid. In general, acetaminophen (Tylenol) works within 45 minutes when it's taken by mouth. This medication typically doesn't have many side effects. It's recommended to limit or avoid alcohol while taking acetaminophen (Tylenol) to lower your risk for liver problems.

  • Indications of Aleve vs. Tylenol

    Indications for
    •Short-term relief of minor aches and pains due:
    •Headaches
    •Arthritis
    •Muscle aches
    •Backache
    •Menstrual cramps
    •Common cold
    •Lower fever
    Indications for
    •Mild pain
    •Fever

  • Pros and Cons of Aleve vs. Tylenol

    Pros and Const for NSAID
    Pros
    •Works well for treating pain and inflammation
    •Available over the counter (OTC) and as a lower-cost generic
    •Effects last longer than other NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen (Advil)
    Cons
    •OTC naproxen is only available as a tablet
    •Can raise your risk for bleeding
    •Might not be the best option if you're 65 years or older, or have kidney, heart, liver, or bleeding problems
    Pros and Const for Analgesic
    Pros
    •Works well to relieve mild aches or pain and lower fever
    •Can use in adults and children
    •Available in a lower-cost generic and is available over the counter
    •Comes in many different strengths and forms (e.g., tablet, capsule, chewable tablet, liquid, powder, suppository)
    Cons
    •Doesn't help with inflammation and swelling
    •Might not work as well to treat moderate-to-severe pain
    •Not the best option for people who drink alcohol often because of the risk of liver damage

  • Common Side Effects of Aleve vs. Tylenol

    Common Side Effects for
    •Heartburn
    •Nausea
    •Stomach pain
    •Dizziness
    •Headache
    Common Side Effects for

    Side effects typically aren't common with this medication.

  • Warnings of Aleve vs. Tylenol

    Common Side Effects for
    •Stomach bleeding
    •Heart attack and stroke
    •High blood pressure and heart failure
    •Kidney damage
    •Liver problems
    •Severe allergic reactions
    •Not for use while pregnant or breastfeeding
    Common Side Effects for
    •Liver damage
    •Accidental overdose
    •Allergic skin reactions

  • Prices with our coupons for Aleve vs. Tylenol

    Learn more about Naproxen sodium
    Learn more about Acetaminophen

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