Do ibuprofen and naproxen have the same side effects compared to acetaminophen?
- Q: Would ibuprofen and naproxen have the same side effects? How do they compare to acetaminophen?
- A: Ibuprofen and naproxen are both classified in a group of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and they both work by reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body. Both ibuprofen and naproxen are used to treat pain and inflammation caused by many conditions. Ibuprofen is also used to reduce fever. Ibuprofen is usually recommended for conditions such as headache, toothache, back pain, arthritis, menstrual cramps, or minor injury. Naproxen is usually recommended to treat pain or inflammation caused by conditions such as arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, tendinitis, bursitis, gout, or menstrual cramps. Both drugs are similar with regard to side effects. Frequently seen with ibuprofen, as well as naproxen, are nausea and dyspepsia (upset stomach), while the side effects listed as more serious with both drugs are gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding and nephrotoxicity (kidney damage). Acetaminophen, also an analgesic (pain reliever) and an antipyretic (fever reducer), is somewhat different in chemical structure from the NSAIDs. Acetaminophen only has nausea and rash for common side effects. The main serious side effect to watch for with acetaminophen is hepatotoxicity, which is damage to the liver. People using acetaminophen for chronic pain should make sure they do not take more than 4000 mg of acetaminophen per day. For more specific information, consult with your doctor or pharmacist for guidance based on your health status and current medications, particularly before taking any action. Gregory Latham, RPh
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