Hello Everyone,
Here is a very informative article from the Everyday Health website that describes the differences between the 3 most popular over-the-counter pain relievers, Aspirin, Acetaminophen, and Ibuprofen.
Enjoy,
MarkÂ
NOTE:
A link to the original article is located at the bottom of this post.
WHICH PAIN RELIEVER IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
Pain-Fighting Trio: Aspirin, Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen:
You’ve got a headache, or a fever, or maybe an inflammation thanks to an injury or illness. You reach for one of the over-the-counter (OTC) painkillers in your medicine cabinet, but which one is the right one? Here’s a rundown of what they are and what they do.
1.
ASPIRIN
Part of a group of medications called salicylates, aspirin reduces fever, pain, swelling, and blood clots. Aspirin can also prevent heart attacks in those who have a history of heart attacks or angina. It can prevent ischemic strokes but won’t stop hemorrhagic strokes. Check with your doctor before giving aspirin to your child or teenager since it can cause Reye’s syndrome.
2.
ACETAMINOPHEN
Included in a class of medications called analgesics and antipyretics, it works by cooling the body and changing the way the body senses pain. Acetaminophen relieves mild to moderate pain and the pain of osteoarthritis. In children, only use acetaminophen products specifically designed for them, and give dosage based on age and weight.
3.
IBUPROFEN
In a class of medications called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, or NSAIDs, ibuprofen works by stopping the body’s production of a substance that causes pain, fever, and inflammation. While ibuprofen reduces fever and relieves mild pain, people who take NSAIDs (other than aspirin) may have a higher risk of having a heart attack or a stroke.
If your child doesn’t feel better in the first 24 hours of using ibuprofen, or develops new symptoms, call the doctor. Don’t give ibuprofen to a child who has a severe sore throat with other symptoms. Instead, call the doctor.
Click Here to go to the original article containing many helpful links and resources.
