What’s the Difference Between Ibuprofen & Acetaminophen?

Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are more commonly referred to as Tylenol and Advil. These are their most popular brand names.

Alyssa Corso

Alyssa is a Senior Marketing Associate & Content Writer at Mira. She is passionate about educating others on how to affordably access healthcare.

Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are more commonly referred to as Tylenol and Advil. These are their most popular brand names. Ibuprofen is an anti-inflammatory medication that reduces inflammation and pain. They can both be used to reduce fever. Acetaminophen is used for pain and to reduce fever.

Ibuprofen vs. Acetaminophen

According to Sapna Patel, Director of Clinical Services at Mosaic Pharmacy Services, “Ibuprofen is an anti-inflammatory medication that reduces inflammation and pain. It can also be used to reduce fever. Acetaminophen is used for pain and to reduce fever.”

Acetaminophen belongs to a class of drugs called analgesics. Ibuprofen belongs to the drug class called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Forms

Ibuprofen and acetaminophen come in many different forms, including:

• oral tablets
• oral capsules
• oral suspension
• chewable tablets

Ibuprofen also comes in concentrated oral drops. Acetaminophen comes in these other forms:

• oral elixir
• oral solution
• extended-release oral tablets and caplets
• rectal suppositories
• rapid melt tablets
• effervescent tablets

Brand Names

Ibuprofen and acetaminophen are more commonly referred to as Tylenol and Advil.

Brand Names for Acetaminophen & Ibuprofen

The Cost for Ibuprofen & Acetaminophen

The average cost for 30 tablets, 800mg each of the generic version of ibuprofen, is $11.99. The average price for acetaminophen 500 mg is around $10 for a supply of 10 tablets, depending on the pharmacy you visit.

Ibuprofen Cost

The recommended dosage for adults is one or two 200 milligrams (mg) tablets every four to six hours. Adults should not exceed 800 mg at once or 3,200 mg per day.

This chart reflects the price per unit of 200 mg oral tablet of ibuprofen.

Source: https://www.drugs.com/price-guide/ibuprofen

Acetaminophen Cost

The maximum daily dose for a healthy adult who weighs at least 150 pounds is 4,000 milligrams (mg).

However, in some people, taking the maximum daily dose for extended periods can seriously damage the liver. It’s best to consult a healthcare professional.