Ibuprofen VS Paracetamol

When is ibuprofen preferred over paracetamol?

Inflammation, musculoskeletal injuries, dental pain, menstrual cramps, swelling

Why is ibuprofen better for inflammatory pain?

Because ibuprofen is an NSAID that reduces inflammation, swelling, and pain, whereas paracetamol only reduces pain and fever.

When is paracetamol preferred over ibuprofen?

fever, headache, viral illnesses, generalized pain, elderly/fragile pt, pain without inflammation, renal impairment, NSAIDs asthma, ulcers, bleeding risk, third trimester of pregnancy.

Can ibuprofen and paracetamol be given together?

Yes, they can be used together safely and effectively for multimodal analgesia when there are no contraindications.

What are the contraindications for ibuprofen?

NSAID allergy, asthma triggered by NSAIDs, renal impairment, active GI bleed or ulcers, anticoagulant use, severe dehydration, and late pregnancy.