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What's the difference between aspirin and ibuprofen?

Medically reviewed by Carmen Pope, BPharm. Last updated on Aug 5, 2025.

Official Answer by Drugs.com

Aspirin vs ibuprofen

Both aspirin and ibuprofen are popular NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) that work by blocking prostaglandin production to reduce pain and inflammation. However, these over-the-counter pain relievers have important differences in safety, uses, and side effects.

Key Differences Between Aspirin and Ibuprofen

1. Gastrointestinal Safety

2. Age Restrictions and Pediatric Use

3. Cardiovascular and Blood-Thinning Effects

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.

4. Drug Classification and Allergies

Aspirin is 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.

Do not use ibuprofen if you are allergic to it or have ever had an asthma attack or a severe allergic reaction after taking aspirin or a NSAID.

5. Best Uses for Each Medication

buprofen 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.

Choose ibuprofen for:

Choose aspirin for:

Bottom Line: Choose ibuprofen for ongoing inflammatory conditions and when GI safety is a concern. Choose aspirin for occasional pain relief or cardiovascular protection. Always consult healthcare providers for chronic pain management or if you have underlying health conditions.

Related questions

Dosage and Safety Guidelines

Ibuprofen Dosing:

Aspirin Dosing:

Important Safety Warnings

Who Should Avoid These NSAIDs:

Drug Interactions:

Both medications interact with:

Do not take aspirin and ibuprofen together - this increases side effect risks without added benefits. 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.

Cardiovascular Risk Comparison:

Alternative Pain Relief:

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is often preferred over NSAIDs when appropriate, especially for patients with:

Important Guidance

When taking any NSAID, the following guidance is given:

References

Read next

Aspirin Overdose: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Emergency Treatment

An aspirin overdose can occur after a single large dose (this is called an acute overdose) or develop gradually after taking lower doses for a long time (this is called a chronic overdose). An acute aspirin overdose may be accidental or intentional. A toxic dose of aspirin for a human adult is considered to be 200 to 300 milligrams per kilogram of body weight (works out to be 13,600 to 20,400mg of aspirin for a person who weighs 68 kg [approximately 150 pounds]). A dose of 500 milligrams per kilogram of body weight (34,000mg for a 68kg person) is considered a potentially lethal dose of aspirin, and could result in death. Continue reading

Does aspirin lower blood pressure?

No, aspirin does not appear to affect blood pressure. The effects of aspirin on blood pressure have been studied at doses even higher than 1,500 mg per day, as well as low doses for an average of 4 years. These studies showed that aspirin does not have an effect on blood pressure. Continue reading

Can I give Aspirin to my dog or cat?

DO NOT give aspirin to cats; it can be deadly to your cat. Cats lack the enzyme needed for metabolizing salicylic acid properly, and aspirin can build up and be extremely toxic. Many vets do not recommend aspirin use in dogs anymore due to stomach ulcers and the possibility of bleeding. Continue reading

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