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The Side Effects of Advil and Tylenol: What You Need to Know

As over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers, Advil and Tylenol are two of the most widely used medications in the world. Both are designed to alleviate headaches, fever, and other minor aches and pains. However, like all medications, they can cause side effects, some of which can be serious.

What are Advil and Tylenol?

Advil, also known as ibuprofen, is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works by blocking the production of prostaglandins, which are hormones that cause pain and inflammation. Tylenol, also known as acetaminophen, is an analgesic and antipyretic that works by blocking the production of prostaglandins in the brain.

Common Side Effects of Advil

According to the FDA, some common side effects of Advil include:

* Stomach upset: Nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain are common side effects of Advil.
* Headache: Ironically, Advil can cause headaches, especially when taken in high doses or for extended periods.
* Dizziness: Dizziness and lightheadedness are common side effects of Advil, especially when standing up quickly.
* Nausea and vomiting: Advil can cause nausea and vomiting, especially in high doses or when taken with other medications.
* Diarrhea: Diarrhea is a common side effect of Advil, especially in people who are sensitive to the medication.

Common Side Effects of Tylenol

According to the FDA, some common side effects of Tylenol include:

* Stomach upset: Nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain are common side effects of Tylenol.
* Headache: Tylenol can cause headaches, especially when taken in high doses or for extended periods.
* Dizziness: Dizziness and lightheadedness are common side effects of Tylenol, especially when standing up quickly.
* Nausea and vomiting: Tylenol can cause nausea and vomiting, especially in high doses or when taken with other medications.
* Abdominal pain: Abdominal pain is a common side effect of Tylenol, especially in people who are sensitive to the medication.

Serious Side Effects of Advil and Tylenol

While rare, serious side effects of Advil and Tylenol can occur. These include:

* Stomach bleeding: Both Advil and Tylenol can cause stomach bleeding, especially in people who take them regularly or in high doses.
* Kidney damage: Long-term use of Advil and Tylenol can cause kidney damage, especially in people who have pre-existing kidney problems.
* Liver damage: Tylenol can cause liver damage, especially in people who take it regularly or in high doses.
* Allergic reactions: Both Advil and Tylenol can cause allergic reactions, including hives, itching, and difficulty breathing.

Precautions and Warnings

It's essential to take Advil and Tylenol with caution and follow the recommended dosage instructions. Additionally, people with certain medical conditions, such as kidney or liver disease, should consult their doctor before taking these medications.

Alternatives to Advil and Tylenol

If you're experiencing frequent or severe pain, it's essential to talk to your doctor about alternative treatments. There are many natural remedies and OTC medications that can provide relief without the risk of serious side effects.

Conclusion

Advil and Tylenol are two of the most widely used OTC medications, but they can cause side effects, some of which can be serious. It's essential to take these medications with caution and follow the recommended dosage instructions. If you're experiencing side effects or have concerns about taking Advil or Tylenol, consult your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Key Takeaways

* Advil and Tylenol can cause common side effects such as stomach upset, headache, and dizziness.
* Serious side effects of Advil and Tylenol can occur, including stomach bleeding, kidney damage, and liver damage.
* People with certain medical conditions should consult their doctor before taking Advil or Tylenol.
* Alternatives to Advil and Tylenol are available, including natural remedies and OTC medications.

FAQs

1. What are the most common side effects of Advil?
* Stomach upset, headache, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, and diarrhea.
2. What are the most common side effects of Tylenol?
* Stomach upset, headache, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, and abdominal pain.
3. Can I take Advil and Tylenol together?
* No, it's not recommended to take Advil and Tylenol together. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
4. Are Advil and Tylenol safe for children?
* No, Advil and Tylenol are not recommended for children under the age of 12. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
5. Can I take Advil and Tylenol if I have kidney disease?
* No, people with kidney disease should consult their doctor before taking Advil or Tylenol.

Sources

1. FDA. (2020). Ibuprofen.
2. FDA. (2020). Acetaminophen.
3. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2020). Ibuprofen patents.
4. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2020). Acetaminophen patents.
5. Mayo Clinic. (2020). Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin).
6. Mayo Clinic. (2020). Acetaminophen (Tylenol).

Note: The sources cited are publicly available and were used to gather information for the article.