For some reason my parents (as they got older) couldn’t remember when or if they could take acetaminophen (Tylenol and generic) and/or ibuprofen (Advil and other NSAIDs) at the same time. I would tell them over and over that they could take these together if needed but that they needed to take the NSAID (Advil for them) with food. I would also have to remind them how much and how often and if they could take these medications. I would write it all down but my Mom was not very organized and would promptly lose the directions. Then my husband mentioned the same thing to me as to some confusion over these two over-the-counter medications. My thought here is that maybe there are others out there that get mixed up over this issue. Most people know the difference and know exactly when or if and how much to take of these two pain relievers. The big thing though, and maybe even more confusing, is that the NSAIDs such as Motrin or Advil etc. have an anti-inflammatory effect as well as a pain reliever effect. The Tylenol type drugs do not have the anti-inflammatory effect, just the pain reliever effect. Another big thing here is that the NSAIDs can mess up your GI tract and give you GERD as well as some other GI issues that Tylenol does not. So, you need to take the NSAIDs with food and you may have to include an antacid regimen with this as per your doctor. In fact, make sure you talk to your doctor about any medication (prescription or otherwise) that you wish to take. For instance, if you have liver problems, your doctor may tell you not to take Tylenol (or generic) or if you have kidney problems, you may be advised not to take any NSAID. This is very important advice. So, I hope I have helped someone out there keep these two common medications straight. But remember again, talk to your own health care professional before you take my advice on any health issue. That person knows your medical issues and I do not. But thank you for listening.
Thanks again, Dixie. I know that but alot of people don’t. Am sure your blogs really help.