Is Tylenol (acetaminophen) an anti-inflammatory drug?
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on April 4, 2025.
No, Tylenol (acetaminophen) is not an anti-inflammatory. Tylenol is classified as a painkiller for mild to moderate pain and fever. There is a theory that acetaminophen may inhibit COX enzymes, similar to the way NSAIDs work, but without the anti-inflammatory effect. Tylenol typically has a lower effect on pain due to inflammation than NSAIDs.
Acetaminophen is used to treat many conditions such as headache, muscle aches, arthritis, backache, toothaches, colds, and fevers.
Acetaminophen 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 health care provider before taking acetaminophen as prolonged or high doses of acetaminophen may cause bleeding. Report any signs of bleeding to your doctor if you take a blood thinner.
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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
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
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Yes, it is safe to take Advil (ibuprofen) and Tylenol (acetaminophen) together if you need to for extra pain relief, such as for a dental extraction. This combination is more effective than taking either medication alone because they work through different mechanisms with minimal overlapping of side effects. But it is important to follow key safety guidelines.
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