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Compare Tylenol vs. Plavix

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

Key takeaways

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and clopidogrel (Plavix) are used for different purposes and belong to different medication classes. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is an over-the-counter analgesic used to relieve mild pain and reduce fever. It comes in various forms, such as tablets, liquids, and suppositories, and is generally safe with few side effects, though it can cause liver damage if taken in excess or with alcohol. On the other hand, clopidogrel (Plavix) is a prescription-only P2Y12 inhibitor, a type of antiplatelet medication, used to prevent heart attacks and strokes in people at higher risk. It works by preventing blood clots and is taken once daily. Clopidogrel (Plavix) can cause serious bleeding and has many interactions with other medications. While acetaminophen (Tylenol) is widely available and used for common ailments, clopidogrel (Plavix) is specifically for cardiovascular conditions and requires careful monitoring.

  • Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
    Clopidogrel (Plavix)
  • Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
    Clopidogrel (Plavix)

  • Summary of Tylenol vs. Plavix

    Summary for Analgesic

    Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is an over-the-counter (OTC) medication used to lower fever and relieve mild pain in adults and children. It's available in many strengths and formulations, such as tablets, chewable tablets, and liquid. In general, acetaminophen (Tylenol) works within 45 minutes when it's taken by mouth. This medication typically doesn't have many side effects. It's recommended to limit or avoid alcohol while taking acetaminophen (Tylenol) to lower your risk for liver problems.

    Summary for P2Y12 inhibitor
    Prescription only

    Clopidogrel (also known by its brand name, Plavix) is a medication that's used to prevent heart attack and stroke in certain people who are at higher risk for those events. It comes as a tablet taken by mouth once per day and is also available as a generic medication. Since it's a blood thinner, possible side effects include bleeding and bruising, especially if you take medications that interact with clopidogrel (Plavix) like certain antidepressants, anticoagulants, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

  • Indications of Tylenol vs. Plavix

    Indications for
    •Mild pain
    •Fever
    Indications for

    For people with a history of a heart attack, stroke, or peripheral artery disease:

    •Heart attack prevention
    •Stroke prevention

  • Pros and Cons of Tylenol vs. Plavix

    Pros and Const for Analgesic
    Pros
    •Works well to relieve mild aches or pain and lower fever
    •Can use in adults and children
    •Available in a lower-cost generic and is available over the counter
    •Comes in many different strengths and forms (e.g., tablet, capsule, chewable tablet, liquid, powder, suppository)
    Cons
    •Doesn't help with inflammation and swelling
    •Might not work as well to treat moderate-to-severe pain
    •Not the best option for people who drink alcohol often because of the risk of liver damage
    Pros and Const for P2Y12 inhibitor
    Pros
    •Works well to lower your risk of having a heart attack or stroke
    •Only taken once a day by mouth
    •Available as a lower-cost, generic form
    Cons
    •Can cause major bleeding or bruising
    •Has many interactions with other medications
    •Might not work as well for people with East Asian descent

  • Common Side Effects of Tylenol vs. Plavix

    Common Side Effects for

    Side effects typically aren't common with this medication.

    Common Side Effects for
    •Minor bleeding (5%)
    •Major bleeding (4%)

  • Warnings of Tylenol vs. Plavix

    Common Side Effects for
    •Liver damage
    •Accidental overdose
    •Allergic skin reactions
    Common Side Effects for
    •Clopidogrel (Plavix) not working as well
    •Bleeding
    •Risk of heart attack or stroke if stopped suddenly
    •Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP)
    •Allergic reaction

  • Prices with our coupons for Tylenol vs. Plavix

    Learn more about Acetaminophen
    Learn more about Clopidogrel

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