Compare Arthrotec vs. Ibuprofen
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Arthrotec (diclofenac/misoprostol) and ibuprofen are both used to relieve pain and inflammation, but they have some key differences. Arthrotec is a combination of diclofenac, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), and misoprostol, a prostaglandin that protects the stomach from ulcers caused by NSAIDs. This makes arthrotec particularly useful for non-pregnant adults with arthritis who are at high risk for stomach and intestinal ulcers. On the other hand, ibuprofen is an NSAID available both over-the-counter (/otc) and by prescription, used for a wide range of minor aches, pains, and fever. While both medications can cause serious side effects like stomach bleeding and heart problems, people who are pregnant shouldn't take arthrotec due to the misoprostol component. Additionally, arthrotec requires multiple doses throughout the day, while ibuprofen's dosing depends on the condition being treated. Both medications should not be taken together or with other NSAIDs to avoid increased risk of side effects.
- Arthrotec (diclofenac / misoprostol)Ibuprofen
- Arthrotec (diclofenac / misoprostol)Ibuprofen
Summary of Arthrotec vs. Ibuprofen
Summary for NSAID / ProstaglandinPrescription onlyArthrotec (diclofenac / misoprostol) is a combination medication used to treat osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in non-pregnant adults. The diclofenac in Arthrotec is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that helps with pain and swelling, while the misoprostol is a prostaglandin E1 analog that lowers the risk of stomach and intestinal ulcers from diclofenac. Arthrotec (diclofenac / misoprostol) is taken by mouth, typically two to four times per day. Common side effects of this medication include stomach cramps (pain) and diarrhea. Avoid drinking alcohol with Arthrotec (diclofenac / misoprostol) because doing so can raise the risk of stomach bleeding.
Summary for NSAIDIbuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that's used to temporarily relieve fever, pains, and aches in adults and children. In general, ibuprofen is taken by mouth every 4 to 8 hours, though the dosage depends on your age, weight, and other medical problems. Ibuprofen side effects include nausea, heartburn, and stomach pain, but taking it with food might help prevent these side effects. Ibuprofen is available over the counter and by prescription, depending on the strength you need.
Indications of Arthrotec vs. Ibuprofen
Indications for•Treatment of osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in adults who are at high risk for stomach and intestinal ulcersIndications forOver-the-counter ibuprofen:
•Short-term relief of minor aches and pains due to headache, muscle aches, minor arthritis pain, toothache, backache, the common cold, or menstrual cramps•FeverPrescription ibuprofen:
•Mild-to-moderate pain•Pain from menstrual crampsPros and Cons of Arthrotec vs. Ibuprofen
Pros and Const for NSAID / ProstaglandinPros•Diclofenac works well to relieve symptoms of pain and swelling and misoprostol works well to lower the risk of stomach and intestinal ulcers and bleeding•Conveniently combines two medication in one pill•Available as a lower-cost genericCons•Needs to be taken multiple times a day•Not safe to take at any time of pregnancy•Might not be the best option if you're 65 years or older or if you have kidney, heart, liver, or bleeding problemsPros and Const for NSAIDPros•Works well for fever, pain, and swelling•Available over the counter and by prescription and as lower-cost generics•Available as tablets, capsules, chewable tablets, and an oral liquid•Chewable tablets and liquid can be used in childrenCons•Lasts for only about 6 hours, so might need to take multiple doses throughout the day•Might not be the best option if you're 65 years or older or if you have kidney, heart, liver, or bleeding problems•Has risk of stomach bleeding, stomach ulcers, and kidney problems•Shouldn't take other NSAIDs at the same time because of higher risk for side effectsCommon Side Effects of Arthrotec vs. Ibuprofen
Common Side Effects for•Stomach pain (21%)•Diarrhea (19%)•Upset stomach or indigestion (14%)•Nausea (11%)•Gas (9%)Common Side Effects forThe following side effects were reported in up to 9% of people in clinical studies.
•Nausea•Stomach pain•Heartburn•Dizziness•RashWarnings of Arthrotec vs. Ibuprofen
Common Side Effects for•Harm to mother and unborn baby•Stomach bleeding•Heart attack and stroke•High blood pressure and heart failure•Kidney damage•Liver problems•Severe allergic reactions and skin reactions•Risk for bleedingCommon Side Effects for•Stomach bleeding and ulcers•Heart attack and stroke•High blood pressure and heart failure•Kidney damage•Liver problems•Severe allergic reactions•Harm to unborn babies•Caution use in people with phenylketonuria (PKU) - chewable tablets onlyPrices with our coupons for Arthrotec vs. Ibuprofen
Compare other Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis drugs
Browse medications
View AllResearch prescriptions and over-the-counter medications from A to Z, compare drug prices, and start saving.