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Duexis vs. Ibuprofen

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

Key takeaways

Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and ibuprofen / famotidine are both used to treat pain and inflammation, particularly in conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. However, they differ in their formulations and specific uses. Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAID) available over-the-counter and by prescription, while ibuprofen / famotidine is a prescription-only combination of ibuprofen and famotidine, a histamine H2 antagonist. Ibuprofen / famotidine is specifically designed to reduce the risk of stomach ulcers that can be caused by ibuprofen alone. Ibuprofen / famotidine is taken as a single tablet three times a day, whereas ibuprofen can be taken every 4 to 8 hours depending on the formulation and dosage. Both medications are available in generic forms. Ibuprofen / famotidine used to be available as brand-name Duexis, but this product was discontinued. Common side effects of both medications include nausea and stomach pain. Both medications have potential drug interactions, so it's important to discuss all medications you're taking with a healthcare professional.

Duexis

(ibuprofen / famotidine)

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Ibuprofen

 

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Summary for Duexis

Prescription only

Duexis is a prescription medication that contains ibuprofen (a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)) and famotidine (a H2 blocker). It's taken by adults to treat osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), while also helps protect against stomach ulcer. This medication is taken by mouth three times per day. Side effects include headache, nausea, and high blood pressure. Brand name Duexis has been discontinued; this medication is only available as a generic.

Indications for Duexis

Pros and Cons for Duexis

Pros

Cons

  • Taken 3 times a day
  • Can't be crushed and doesn't come as a liquid; not a good choice for people who can't swallow tablets
  • Not safe for people with certain medical conditions, such as heart problems or kidney problems

Common Side Effects for Duexis

Warnings for Duexis

  • Stomach bleeding and ulcers
  • Heart attack and stroke
  • High blood pressure, heart failure, and swelling
  • Kidney damage and high potassium levels
  • Liver problems
  • Severe allergic reactions
  • Harm to unborn babies
  • Accidentally taking too much medication
  • Changes in vision

Summary for Ibuprofen

Prescription or over-the-counter

Ibuprofen 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 for Ibuprofen

Over-the-counter ibuprofen:

Prescription ibuprofen:

Pros and Cons for Ibuprofen

Pros

  • 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 children

Cons

  • 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 effects

Common Side Effects for Ibuprofen

The following side effects were reported in up to 9% of people in clinical studies.

  • Nausea
  • Stomach pain
  • Heartburn
  • Dizziness
  • Rash

Warnings for Ibuprofen

  • 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 only

Prices with our coupons for Duexis vs. Ibuprofen

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Ibuprofen/Famotidine90 tablets / 800mg/26.6mg
$68.72$858.84
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Ibuprofen30 tablets / 800mg
$8.92$16.19
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