CHI - KentuckyOne Health (Central-Eastern)

IN 2015, the Consumer Healthcare Products Association reported that U.S. households spend roughly $338 annually on over-the-counter (OTC) medications, including acetaminophen and ibuprofen. While both remedies can signifi cantly reduce symptoms, the two belong to distinct medication families and have different uses. Jessica Pennington, MD, and Jianxia Wang, MD, primary care physicians with KentuckyOne Health Primary Care Associates, weigh in on the differences. Your primary care doctor will know which pain relief option will work best for you based on your medical history and can explain when you shouldn't take certain medications. — JESSICA PENNINGTON, MD, PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIAN WITH KENTUCKYONE HEALTH PRIMARY CARE ASSOCIATES ACETAMINOPHEN AND IBUPROFEN ARE MANY HOUSEHOLDS' GO-TO FOR ACHES, PAINS AND FEVERS. BUT WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE TWO? An Over-the-counter Overview Between acetaminophen and ibuprofen, which is better for pain relief? DR. WANG: Both medications will help with pain, but physicians recommend using the two in different situations. Acetaminophen is an analgesic used to relieve mild to moderate non-infl ammatory pain. Ibuprofen, on the other hand, is a non-steroidal anti-infl ammatory drug (NSAID) used primarily to treat pain related to infl ammation, like arthritis and joint pain. Both are fever reducers. Does it matter which one I take? DR. PENNINGTON: Many people turn to acetaminophen to fi ght a fever. However, studies have suggested that ibuprofen works better. Are there any circumstances or certain medical conditions that warrant taking one over the other? DR. WANG: Ibuprofen is not recommended for people with kidney or heart problems or a history of gastrointestinal bleeding. Pregnant women shouldn't take ibuprofen. Acetaminophen can be taken during pregnancy. However, taking it regularly is not recommended for people with liver problems or renal failure unless they are closely supervised by a physician. Jessica Pennington, MD Jianxia Wang, MD Is one safer than the other? DR. PENNINGTON: Both remedies are considered safe when used correctly, but dangerous if not. In rare cases, acetaminophen can cause allergic reactions. Taken in high doses, it can lead to liver damage. Acetaminophen is an ingredient in many allergy, pain and cold medications, so it's important to check the labels carefully to avoid taking too much. In contrast, ibuprofen can cause stomach ulcers, constipation, high blood pressure, kidney problems and heartburn if misused. This medication should not be taken if you are allergic to aspirin, naproxen or other NSAIDs. Talk with your doctor to fi nd out which medication is best for you, and always follow dosing instructions carefully. To fi nd a trusted primary care physician near you, call 844.297.6891. Pain Relief: ONE HEALTH | Spring 2017 3

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