Compare Aspirin vs. Ibuprofen
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and aspirin are both nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) used to relieve pain, reduce fever, and lessen inflammation. However, they have some key differences. Aspirin is often used at a lower dose (81 mg) for heart protection in adults at risk of heart attack or stroke, while ibuprofen isn't used in this way. Aspirin can be taken orally or rectally, whereas ibuprofen is only taken orally. Aspirin is not recommended for children under 12 years old or in children under 18 years old with the flu due to the risk of Reye's syndrome. On the other hand, ibuprofen can be used in children as young as 6 months. Both medications can cause stomach issues, but ibuprofen is linked to higher risks of heart attack and stroke, especially with long-term use. Additionally, ibuprofen can raise blood pressure and cause kidney problems, while aspirin might worsen asthma symptoms. Both are available over-the-counter, making them accessible and affordable options for pain and fever relief.
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Summary of Aspirin vs. Ibuprofen
Summary for NSAIDAspirin is an over-the-counter NSAID (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug) that helps lessens inflammation. It's used to help lower fevers and relieve pain from minor injuries in people 12 years of age and older. A lower dose of aspirin is also commonly used for heart protection in certain adults who are at risk of having a heart attack or stroke. This medication most often comes as pills that are taken by mouth. Aspirin side effects include heartburn and stomach upset.
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 Aspirin vs. Ibuprofen
Indications for•Pain relief from minor aches and pains, such as from headaches, muscle pain, toothache, menstrual cramps, and arthritis•Fever•Heart protection (lower the risk for heart attack or stroke) in certain adults - low-dose aspirin (81 mg per day) onlyIndications 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 Aspirin vs. Ibuprofen
Pros and Const for NSAIDPros•Can help protect the heart in certain adults with or at risk for heart disease when taken at low doses (81 mg per day)•Available as a chewable tablet for people who have trouble swallowing pills•Available over the counter in a lower-cost, generic formCons•Has risk for stomach ulcers and bleeding•Might worsen asthma symptoms•Not recommended for relieving pain or breaking fevers for children 18 years or younger with the flu because of risk of Reye's syndrome•Can't be used in children 12 years or youngerPros 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 Aspirin vs. Ibuprofen
Common Side Effects for•Stomach irritation (e.g., heartburn, stomach upset)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 Aspirin vs. Ibuprofen
Common Side Effects for•Stomach irritation, stomach bleeding, and stomach ulcers•Kidney problems•Reye's syndrome in children•Harm to an unborn baby•Severe allergic reactions and skin reactions•Different aspirin strengths availableCommon 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 Aspirin vs. Ibuprofen
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