Both MOTRIN® and TYLENOL® temporarily reduce fever and relieve minor aches and pains but by using different active ingredients. TYLENOL®, which contains acetaminophen, can be a more appropriate option than MOTRIN®, which contains ibuprofen an NSAID. Although NSAIDs share some similarities, they have different levels of risk. For example, ibuprofen irritates the stomach less than aspirin. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions and please note that the information below is not a substitute for the specific product's Drug Facts Label. Please always read and follow the label. Show Explore our easy-to-read chart below to compare MOTRIN® vs. TYLENOL® to help you decide if TYLENOL® or MOTRIN® is the right pain reliever for you.
Over-the-counter painkillers have earned their spot in your medicine cabinet. You reach for them to lower a fever, banish a headache or ease those monthly cramps. Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy Both acetaminophen (such as Tylenol®) and ibuprofen (Advil® or Motrin®) are used to treat fevers and pain. But they’re not exactly interchangeable. Which should you choose? Here family medicine specialist Matthew Goldman, MD, discusses what you should know about which med makes the most sense for your aches and pains. Ibuprofen basicsIbuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). As the name suggests, it tends to be most helpful for discomfort that goes hand in hand with inflammation, which can include redness, swelling, heat, pain and/or loss of function at the site or source. That makes it a smart pick for pain such as:
Acetaminophen basicsAcetaminophen is a type of drug called an analgesic. Translation: It reduces pain signals within the nervous system and not at the site itself. That makes it a good choice for pain such as:
Pain medication side effectsBoth acetaminophen and ibuprofen carry a risk of side effects, so follow the dosage info on the labels. Here’s what to look out for when you’re taking these painkillers. Ibuprofen side effectsCommon side effects of ibuprofen include:
Taking ibuprofen for a long time or at high doses can also increase the risk of more serious side effects, such as:
Acetaminophen side effectsSide effects of acetaminophen are minimal, but some people experience problems including:
Ibuprofen is metabolized by the kidneys and therefore is not a great option for those with kidney issues. Acetaminophen is metabolized by the liver and is not a great option for those with liver issues. For those who have neither kidney nor liver issues, sometimes we alternate acetaminophen and ibuprofen to avoid overdosing as well as attacking pain and inflammation from two different approaches. Acetaminophen can also be hiding in several over-the-counter medicines, including cough and cold medications. If you’re taking more than one medication, read drug labels carefully so that you don’t go over the recommended dosage. For example, it may not be safe to take cold medicine and Tylenol at the same time. Which painkiller should you pick?So which pain med reigns supreme? While there’s no right answer, these pointers can help you decide. FeverMost research suggest acetaminophen and ibuprofen have similar results in controlling fevers, so pick what works for you. Stomach troubleIf you have a sensitive stomach or find that ibuprofen causes heartburn or nausea, give acetaminophen a whirl. Period painsIbuprofen reduces your body’s production of prostaglandins. These are the chemicals that trigger the uterus to contract and start periods each month. Ibuprofen can ease menstrual cramps and may also make menstrual bleeding lighter. Other medsBoth ibuprofen and acetaminophen can interact negatively with some prescription and over-the-counter drugs. If you’re taking medication, talk to your provider doctor or pharmacist before reaching for the painkillers. Persistent painIf you’re taking painkillers over several days, consider alternating ibuprofen and acetaminophen to lower the risk of side effects. KidsBoth ibuprofen and acetaminophen can control pain in kids. But ibuprofen tends to work better as a fever reducer. Be sure to follow the dosage guidelines on the label for your little one’s age and weight. What’s the takeaway? When used responsibly, ibuprofen and acetaminophen are safe choices for turning down the dial on fever and pain. And isn’t it good to have options? Why do doctors recommend Tylenol over ibuprofen?Ibuprofen can also damage the kidneys and cause high blood pressure, especially when large doses are taken over a prolonged period. The biggest risk with acetaminophen is liver damage when very high doses are taken. This can lead to liver failure and death if prompt medical attention is not sought after an overdose.
What is a stronger pain reliever than ibuprofen?Aspirin, naproxen (Aleve), and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) are examples of OTC NSAIDs. If OTC medicines don't relieve your pain, your doctor may prescribe something stronger. Many NSAIDs are also available at higher prescription doses. The most powerful pain relievers are opioids.
What is a stronger pain reliever than Tylenol?NSAIDs such as aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), and naproxen (Aleve, Anaprox) may be more effective than acetaminophen for certain conditions because they reduce inflammation as well as relieve pain.
Which is stronger Tylenol or ibuprofen?Ibuprofen is more effective than acetaminophen for treating inflammatory pain conditions. Ibuprofen is FDA-approved to treat osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, whereas acetaminophen may be used off-label for these conditions. However, acetaminophen may cause less serious side effects than ibuprofen.
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What works better for pain tylenol or ibuprofen
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