Naproxen vs Ibuprofen

Answer 1

Aspirin, sold as Bayer or Bufferin was the first over-the-counter pain reliever to see mass production. Aspirin is absorbed into the bloodstream and essentially looks for prostaglandins, substances that are concentrated where we feel pain. In short, aspirin reacts with our blood chemistry to inhibit the enzyme cyclooxygenase, which in turns limits the volume of prostaglandins. As you undoubtedly know, aspirin is used to treat headaches of all sizes, to quell minor body aches and pains, and to reduce inflammation when we're sore. But it's rough on the upper digestive tract (can cause upset stomach, heartburn, and even dyspepsia), it's bad for hemophiliacs (because it's an anticoagulant), and it's not always safe for kids (because it's linked to Reye's syndrome). Even so, aspirin is still the most common over-the-counter pain reliever, available in both brand names and generic versions. And now it's also playing a role in the treatment of Heart disease as an anticoagulant.

Ibuprofen, sold as Motrin or Advil, is chemically similar to regular aspirin and functions in an analogous way, minimizing the production of prostaglandins, though it accomplishes this with slightly different chemical reactions. So how is ibuprofen different from aspirin? In lower doses, ibuprofen seems to irritate the esophagus and stomach lining less than its close cousins, aspirin and naproxen. If you have ulcers or acid reflux disease, ibuprofen may be the best product for pain clearly resulting from inflammation (Arthritis, sprains, sunburns, etc.).

Naproxen, sold as Aleve, is especially effective as an anti-inflammatory agent. For arthritis, sprains, sunburns, and other inflammation-based pain, naproxen seems to edge its competition. Many women suffering from menstrual cramps also report that naproxen is more effective than standard aspirin. Also, similar doses of this over-the-counter pain reliever tend to last longer, often for 8-12 hours instead of 4-8 hours.

Acetaminophen (sometimes called paracetamol), sold as Tylenol, lowers fevers and soothes headaches effectively, but it is NOT an anti-inflammatory substance. As a result, it won't do much for arthritis or sprains. Of course, acetaminophen has some key trade-off benefits, including a milder effect on the upper digestive tract than other over-the-counter pain relievers. It is less irritating to the lining of the stomach, making it the best headache treatment for people with acid reflux disease, ulcers, and the like. Acetaminophen is also safer for hemophiliacs and children than aspirin and its friends. There are various permutations of acetaminophen on the market, so be sure to see what else it's partnered with and whether drowsiness may result from the combo.

Be aware that because its usual dosage for pain relief and its overdose amount are not incredibly different, some doctors consider acetaminophen to be more dangerous than aspirin, arguing that it is easier to overdose unintentionally which can cause kidney and liver failure leading to death. It is among the most overdosed drugs in the world. You should not take more than 4000 mg of acetaminophen a day. Taking more, especially 7000 mg or more, can lead to a severe overdose if not treated. Accidental overdose can be the result of taking multiple products containing acetaminophen. Symptoms may not occur until 12 or more hours after the acetaminophen was swallowed. There is no home treatment. Seek professional medical help immediately. Many people experience no early symptoms after an overdose. In the next 24 to 72 hours, the early symptoms start to go away, but liver damage starts to occur. The first symptom of liver damage is usually upper-right abdominal pain or tenderness (near the liver), and a healthcare provider may notice that the liver is enlarged. After this, liver failure may occur, causing symptoms such as: yellow eyes and skin (jaundice), dark urine, confusion, low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), bleeding, nausea and vomiting. Some people also experience kidney failure or heart problems. Death may occur, usually as the result of swelling in the brain, infections, or multiple organ failure. Do not overdose acetaminophen! If the overdose was recent, activated charcoal may be given to prevent the body from absorbing the drug. A medication called N-acetylcysteine (Acetadote®, Mucomyst®) is extremely important for the treatment of an overdose and can help prevent liver damage. Seek medical attention!

Answer 2

Both are from the same drug class NSAID's, both are from the same drug category propionic acids. There is different dosages on each drug for their therapeutic effects. Both have essentially the same side effects. Although from my clinical experience GI effects are better tolerated with naproxen, but every patient has their own preference. It's for you to decide which seems to have a better effect on your body.

Answer 3

Ibuprofen is an NSAID. NSAID stands for Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug. Ibuprofen is in this classification, as an anti-inflammatory. It is also an OTC non-narcotic analgesic. Naproxen, I believe, is still prescription only, but it is in the same category. Also, an analgesic. The reason NSAIDs can be used as pain relievers is, generally, musculoskeletal pain is generally cause by some sort of muscle or membrane inflammation. The prescription analgesics you can acquire start to delve into anti-depressants, opioids, opiates, and other derivatives. Hope this helped!

Answer 4

Nurofen in the New Zealand brand name for the drug ibuprofen.

They are one and the same.