Paracetamol vs Ibuprofen
Different mechanisms, often combined for best relief.
Paracetamol works primarily in the brain to reduce pain and fever. Ibuprofen reduces inflammation and pain throughout the body. Combining them at appropriate doses is safe for most adults and often more effective than either alone.
Side by side
| Factor | Paracetamol | Ibuprofen |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | Central pain/fever | Anti-inflammatory + pain/fever |
| Pain type | Headache, general pain, fever | Inflammatory pain (injury, dental, period) |
| On empty stomach | Fine | Avoid |
| Kidney safety | Safer | Avoid if kidney disease |
| Ulcer or GI bleed history | Preferred | Avoid |
| Pregnancy | First-line (follow dosing) | Avoid third trimester |
| Liver safety | Avoid if liver disease or heavy alcohol use | Safer for liver |
| Max adult daily dose | 4 g (3 g for small/elderly) | 1.2 g OTC |
Choose Paracetamol when
- Headache or fever first-line
- Kidney disease or ulcer history
- Pregnancy
- Children (correct weight-based dose)
Choose Ibuprofen when
- Menstrual pain
- Dental pain and swelling
- Musculoskeletal injury
- Gout flares
The verdict
Paracetamol first for headache and fever; ibuprofen first for inflammation. For strong pain, alternating or combining at label doses is safe for most adults — but check with a doctor if you have kidney, liver, ulcer, or heart disease, or are pregnant.