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Ibuprofen vs. Dayquil

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

Key takeaways

Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and acetaminophen / dextromethorphan / phenylephrine (DayQuil) are both medications used to relieve symptoms like pain and fever. However, they belong to different medication classes and have distinct uses. Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that helps with pain, inflammation, and fever. It's available over-the-counter and by prescription, and it comes in various oral forms such as tablets and liquids. Common side effects include nausea and stomach pain, and it can interact with many medications, including other NSAIDs and blood thinners. On the other hand, acetaminophen / dextromethorphan / phenylephrine, found in brands like Vicks Dayquil Cold and Flu, is a combination medication that includes an analgesic, a cough suppressant, and a decongestant. It's used for cold and flu symptoms like cough, congestion, and sore throat. This medication is available over-the-counter and typically taken every 4 hours as needed. Side effects can include stomach upset and nervousness, and it should not be taken with other medications containing acetaminophen due to the risk of liver damage. While ibuprofen is more focused on pain and inflammation, the combination medication acetaminophen / dextromethorphan / phenylephrine targets a broader range of cold and flu symptoms.

Ibuprofen

 

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Dayquil Cold and Flu

 

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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

Summary for Dayquil

Over-the-counter

Dayquil Cold and Flu is a combination of three active ingredients: acetaminophen (an analgesic), dextromethorphan (a cough suppressant), and phenylephrine (a decongestant). Dayquil Cold and Flu helps treat symptoms from the common cold and flu in adults and children. It can relieve stuffy nose, cough, sore throat, headache, aches, and fever. Besides Dayquil Cold and Flu, this medication is available under many other brand names and as a generic. It's available as pills and a liquid that's typically taken every 4 hours. Side effects aren't common but can include stomach upset and nervousness.

Indications for Dayquil

  • Short-term relief of symptoms from the common cold and flu:
    • Minor aches and pains
    • Headache
    • Stuffy nose (nasal congestion)
    • Cough
    • Sore throat
    • Fever

Pros and Cons for Dayquil

Pros

  • Can treat a wide variety of common cold or flu symptoms
  • More convenient to take three medications in a single dose
  • Available over the counter and as a lower-cost generic
  • Alcohol-free liquid forms of the medication are available

Cons

  • Might need to take as often as every 4 hours to relieve symptoms
  • More difficult to customize the dose since Dayquil Cold and Flu is a fixed combination of three medications
  • Might not be the best choice for people with certain medical conditions, such as high blood pressure
  • Might not be the best choice for people who drink alcohol regularly

Common Side Effects for Dayquil

Warnings for Dayquil

  • Liver damage
  • Allergic skin reactions
  • Serotonin syndrome
  • Accidentally taking too much medication
  • Worsening of certain medical conditions

Prices with our coupons for Ibuprofen vs. Dayquil

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Ibuprofen30 tablets / 800mg
$8.92$16.20
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Price Card Drug Icon
Dayquil24 capsules / 325mg/10mg/5mg
$10.68$14.97
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