Is acetaminophen (Tylenol) an NSAID Drug?
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on April 5, 2024.
No, acetaminophen (Tylenol) is not classified as an NSAID (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug). Acetaminophen is classified as a miscellaneous analgesic for mild to moderate pain and fever.
It is hypothesized that acetaminophen may inhibit COX enzymes, similar to the way NSAIDs work, but without the anti-inflammatory component. Acetaminophen typically has a lower effect on inflammatory pain than NSAIDs.
Acetaminophen is used to treat many conditions such as headache, muscle aches, arthritis, backache, toothaches, colds, and fevers.
Acetaminophen does not inhibit thromboxane and does not alter platelet aggregation, like aspirin, therefore it is usually the pain reliever of choice for patients who take a blood thinner.
However, if you take a blood thinner, be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking acetaminophen long-term or in high doses as acetaminophen may lead to bleeding.
If you combine a blood thinner with acetaminophen, be sure to report any signs of bleeding to your health care provider, including pain, headache, dizziness, weakness, prolonged bleeding from cuts, increased menstrual flow, unexpected vaginal bleeding, nosebleeds, gum bleeding, unusual bruising, red or dark urine, or red or black (tarry) stools.
Read next
What is paracetamol / Panadol called in the US?
Paracetamol is known as acetaminophen in the U.S. Acetaminophen relieves mild-to-moderate pain, headache and fever. It's available over-the-counter as brand names such as Tylenol, Mapap or Panadol, and also as generics and store-specific brands. There are no differences in the chemical or therapeutics uses of acetaminophen and paracetamol, although recommended doses or available products may differ between countries. Continue reading
Acetaminophen vs paracetamol: What do you need to know?
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) found in the U.S is the same medicine as paracetamol (Panadol) used throughout many regions of the world, including Europe, Australia, India and New Zealand. Acetaminophen and paracetamol are the generic names of medicines used to treat mild pain, headache and fever. Continue reading
Advil (ibuprofen) & Tylenol (acetaminophen) together, safe?
Yes, it is safe to take ibuprofen (Advil) and acetaminophen (Tylenol) together if you need to for extra pain relief, such as for a dental extraction. Taking ibuprofen and acetaminophen together works better to relieve pain than taking ibuprofen and acetaminophen separately. This is because they work in different ways with few side effects. Continue reading
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