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Compare Ibuprofen vs. Tylenol With Codeine

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

Key takeaways

Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that treats pain and relieves fevers. Acetaminophen / codeine (Tylenol #3) is also a pain medication, but it’s considered an opioid because it contains codeine. It also contains acetaminophen (Tylenol). Most forms of ibuprofen are available over the counter. It’s usually considered a first-choice medication for mild-to-moderate pain before trying opioids such as Tylenol #3. Common ibuprofen side effects include heartburn and nausea. More seriously, stomach ulcers, bleeding, and kidney damage can occur. It can also raise the risk of a heart attack. Tylenol #3 side effects include drowsiness, constipation, and nausea. Serious risks include misuse, overdose, and liver damage.

  • Ibuprofen
    Tylenol with codeine
  • Ibuprofen
    Tylenol with codeine

  • Summary of Ibuprofen vs. Tylenol With Codeine

    Summary for NSAID

    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.

    Summary for Analgesic / Opioid
    Prescription only

    Tylenol with Codeine (acetaminophen / codeine), also known as Tylenol #3, is a combination opioid medication. Both acetaminophen and codeine treat mild-to-moderate pain by blocking pain signals in the body. This medication is taken by mouth, typically every 4 hours as needed. Tylenol with Codeine is available as a tablet and liquid. Like other opioids, Tylenol with Codeine can cause common side effects like sleepiness, dizziness, and constipation. It also has a warning for dangerous breathing problems and risk of dependence and misuse.

  • Indications of Ibuprofen vs. Tylenol With Codeine

    Indications for

    Over-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
    •Fever

    Prescription ibuprofen:

    •Mild-to-moderate pain
    •Pain from rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or osteoarthritis (OA)
    •Pain from menstrual cramps
    Indications for
    •Treatment of mild-to-moderate pain that isn't relieved by non-opioid pain medications alone

  • Pros and Cons of Ibuprofen vs. Tylenol With Codeine

    Pros and Const for NSAID
    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
    Pros and Const for Analgesic / Opioid
    Pros
    •Works well for treating mild-to-moderate pain
    •Combines 2 medications with different modes of pain relief into a single pill
    •Available in a liquid form for people who have trouble swallowing tablets
    •Available as a generic medication
    Cons
    •For short-term pain relief only
    •Can be habit-forming
    •Not recommended to take with other medications containing acetaminophen, since it can raise the risk of liver damage
    •Liquid solution contains alcohol

  • Common Side Effects of Ibuprofen vs. Tylenol With Codeine

    Common Side Effects for

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

    •Nausea
    •Stomach pain
    •Heartburn
    •Dizziness
    •Rash
    Common Side Effects for
    •Drowsiness
    •Lightheadedness
    •Dizziness
    •Sleepiness
    •Trouble breathing
    •Nausea
    •Vomiting
    •Constipation
    •Sweating

  • Warnings of Ibuprofen vs. Tylenol With Codeine

    Common 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 only
    Common Side Effects for
    •Potential for dependence and misuse
    •Dangerously slow breathing (respiratory depression)
    •Risk of accidental overdose
    •Harm to newborn babies
    •Serious medication interactions
    •Difficulty concentrating and extreme sleepiness
    •Liver damage
    •Severe allergic and skin reactions
    •Seizures
    •Low blood pressure
    •Low adrenal hormone levels
    •Caution in certain medical conditions
    •Withdrawal

  • Prices with our coupons for Ibuprofen vs. Tylenol With Codeine

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