Choose between Ibuprofen and Paracetamol
Ibuprofen and paracetamol are drugs commonly used to relieve pain and reduce fever. Both of these drugs are available in various brands and are easily found in various pharmacies.
Although they both function as painkillers and reduce fever, ibuprofen and paracetamol still have differences. Improper use of these two drugs has the potential to cause side effects, such as dizziness and vomiting. The following are some of the things you need to know before using ibuprofen and paracetamol.
Important Information About Paracetamol
Paracetamol is an analgesic (pain reliever) class that is useful for relieving mild to moderate pain due to headaches, toothache, menstruation, back pain, and sprains. In addition to relieving pain, paracetamol is also useful for reducing fever.
This drug can be used by everyone, including pregnant and lactating women. It's just that, in children, the use of paracetamol has an age limit. Paracetamol may be given to a child if he has reached two months or more. The child's paracetamol dose needs to be adjusted for his weight, or according to the doctor's instructions.
Just like most drugs, paracetamol can also cause side effects, including:
- Headache.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Constipation.
- Allergy.
Although rare, it does not rule out the possible side effects that can be more severe, such as decreased blood pressure, shortness of breath or faster heart beat. If that happens after using paracetamol, you should immediately see a doctor.
Important Information About Ibuprofen
Ibuprofen belongs to a group of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Just like paracetamol, this drug is also used to relieve pain and fever. The difference is, ibuprofen is also useful for treating inflammation. This drug can inhibit the production of inflammatory substances in the body.
Ibuprofen can be used by children and adults. However, pregnant women are not recommended to use ibuprofen because of the risk of causing defects and health problems in the fetus. Similarly, nursing mothers. Even in small amounts, this drug can be absorbed into breast milk, so that its use needs to be consulted with your doctor first.
The use of ibuprofen in children also has an age limit. Ibuprofen should only be given to children and infants over the age of 6 months. Giving ibuprofen to children who are less than that age must be under the supervision of a doctor.
Some of the side effects of ibuprofen include:
- Indigestion.
- Rash.
- Appetite decreases.
- Headache.
- Kidney failure.
- Allergy.
Because it can cause injury and irritation to the stomach wall, ibuprofen should be consumed after eating.
Choose Ibuprofen or Paracetamol?
Even though it has the same benefits, there are several things that need to be considered before using ibuprofen and paracetamol, namely:
- Drug side effects If you have a history of digestive disorders, such as stomach ulcers or stomach ulcers, it is recommended to use paracetamol because ibuprofen risks injuring the stomach. Ibuprofen is also not suitable if you have a history of heart disease, stroke, or asthma.
- Causes of pain Paracetamol can only relieve pain, but does not address the cause. If you experience pain caused by inflammation, use ibuprofen which can also treat inflammation.
- Duration of use The usage deadline for ibuprofen and paracetamol is different. Read the rules for using the drug packaging or ask your doctor before using it. In general, paracetamol can be used for long-term treatment, while ibuprofen does not.
Another thing to note is the dose of using ibuprofen and paracetamol. For ibuprofen, the maximum dose for use in a day is 3200 milligrams (mg) for adults. While the maximum dose of paracetamol for adults is 4 grams or 4000 mg per day. The maximum dose for children is adjusted to the child's weight.
Warning Before Using Ibuprofen and Paracetamol
To use ibuprofen, you should consult your doctor first, if:
- 65 years old or more.
- Has a problem with the heart, liver, or kidneys.
- Have connective tissue disease, hypertension, stroke, peripheral arterial disease, diabetes, or asthma.
- There is chronic inflammation of the large intestine, as in Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
- Has a history of gastric bleeding.
- Taking blood thinners.
It's the same as ibuprofen. You are not recommended to use paracetamol before consulting a doctor, if:
- Frequently consume alcohol.
- Has a very thin body.
- Have diabetes.
- Having a liver or kidney disorder.
Ibuprofen and paracetamol are available in various forms, with different dosages and methods of use. Although many of these drugs are sold freely, their safe and appropriate use needs to be based on the medical conditions that you have. Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor before using the drug.
Label : Health
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