What's the difference between aspirin and ibuprofen?
Even though aspirin and Ibuprofen are both NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) and work similarly, that is by blocking the body’s production of prostaglandins which relieves pain and inflammation, there are several differences between the two drugs and they are not considered interchangeable.
The main differences between aspirin and ibuprofen are:
- Aspirin is significantly more likely than low-dose ibuprofen to cause gastrointestinal side effects. The risk of other side effects is similar
- Aspirin should not be used in children under 12 years of age or those under the age of 16 with a viral illness because of the risk of Reye’s syndrome. Ibuprofen is approved for use in children over the age of 6 months and may be given to children with a viral illness
- Aspirin may be used at a low dose to reduce the risk of a heart attack or stroke or to prevent blood clotting. Ibuprofen has less of an effect on blood cells or platelets so is not used for this indication
- Aspirin is also a salicylate because it is derived from salicylic acid. Some people are sensitive to salicylates; symptoms may include asthma-like reactions, nasal congestion, and hives
- Ibuprofen is preferred over aspirin for ongoing conditions such as arthritis, menstrual cramps, and back pain. This is because the risk of gastrointestinal side effects increases the longer the duration of treatment and the risk of GI effects associated with aspirin use is already high. Aspirin may be used on an occasional basis to treat headaches, minor body aches, and tooth pain
- Aspirin use does not appear to be associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular events, nor does low-dose ibuprofen (up to 1200mg/day). However, high-dose ibuprofen (1200mg to 2400mg/day) is associated with a higher risk. People with a history of heart disease or stroke should use NSAIDs with caution and they should not be used after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.
Other points to note include:
- Generic aspirin is available and brand names for aspirin include Bayer Aspirin, Ecotrin, and Bufferin
- Generic ibuprofen is available and brand names for ibuprofen include Motrin and Advil
- Neither aspirin or ibuprofen is recommended during pregnancy
- People with gastrointestinal disorders, bleeding disorders or hemophiliacs should avoid aspirin and should only take ibuprofen if recommended and monitored by their doctor
- Aspirin and ibuprofen should not be taken together. If you are prescribed aspirin to reduce your risk of heart attack or stroke, talk with your doctor before taking any NSAIDs, as these may negate the protective effect of aspirin
- Both aspirin and ibuprofen may cause kidney toxicity and allergic-type reactions. Interactions are also similar, with both aspirin and ibuprofen interacting with angiotensin-II receptor blockers (ARBs), diuretics, clopidogrel, warfarin, dabigatran, and aspirin.
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Important Guidance
When taking any NSAID, the following guidance is given:
- Acetaminophen is preferred over NSAIDs, when appropriate
- If an NSAID is deemed necessary, take only the lowest possible dose for the shortest possible time
- Naproxen (in dosages up to 1000mg/day) and ibuprofen (in dosages up to 1200mg/day) are the preferred NSAIDs. Ibuprofen is the most appropriate NSAID for children
- Avoid using long-acting formulations of NSAIDs as these have a higher risk of GI side effects
- Do not take any other NSAID-containing products while being treated with an NSAID
- Doctors should review the need for continued NSAID administration at each consultation
- In people with pre-existing heart disease or who have suffered a heart attack or stroke, NSAIDs should only be used with caution and only under a doctor's supervision
- Older patients, patients with type 2 diabetes or with a history of stomach ulcers, kidney problems or at risk for heart disease are more likely to suffer from NSAID-related complications such as GI side effects, cardiovascular events, and kidney toxicity. NSAIDs should be avoided, but if deemed necessary, their usage should be monitored by a doctor.
Read next
Can you take expired ibuprofen?
Although taking expired ibuprofen is not recommended by the manufacturer, the actual shelf-life is likely to be longer than that indicated by the expiry date, with FDA testing showing many drugs are active for years beyond their expiry date, although specific data on ibuprofen is not available. Within reason, an ibuprofen tablet that is a few months past its expiry date is probably safe to take. Ibuprofen that is years past its expiry date should not be taken. Continue reading
Can you overdose on ibuprofen?
Despite ibuprofen having a wide safety margin, it is possible to overdose on it, but death from ibuprofen overdose is rare. Children are more susceptible to the effects of ibuprofen and likely to experience an overdosage of ibuprofen if dosages of more than 400mg/kg (in the range of 8000mg for a 20kg child [the equivalent of 40 x 200mg ibuprofen tablets]) are ingested. Studies have reported patients ingesting less than 99 mg/kg are unlikely to have symptoms. Continue reading
Can you take tramadol with acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or aspirin?
Yes, it is safe for most people to take tramadol with acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or aspirin if they are old enough (aspirin is not recommended for children less than 16 years and tramadol should not be taken by children under the age of 12). Continue reading
See also:
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