Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help treat many types of pains. The pains these drugs treat vary – from toothache, migraines, cramping of abdominal muscles as well as autoimmune conditions like arthritis. NSAIDs are also used for treating signs of infections such as an increase in body temperature, and pains caused by flu / common cold. In this milieu, what are the differences between aleve and advil? It is essential to know more on these two drugs prior to starting your medication plan.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are known to block the action of COX-1 as well as COX-2 enzyme. Of these, COX-1 is linked to the inner lining of your stomach while COX-2 is about swelling as signals about pain. Intake of NSAIDs helps relieve pains of multiple types; but may also trigger a few abdominal discomforts. In this light, it becomes important to know the differences between Aleve and Advil.
What is Aleve?
Aleve is based on an NSAID called naproxen. The main function of this drug is it has a long action as compared to other nonselective forms of NSAIDs. Owing to its long acting nature, Aleve is known to cause a few adverse effects on your gastric wellbeing.
What is Advil?
This is an NSAID based on ibuprofen used for treating forms of pains and fever. The key chemicals of this drug inhibit a few enzymes which make prostaglandin. You need to know that prostaglandins are your body’s natural way to catalyse inflammation and healing. This action halts signs such as internal swelling. Advil is widely used for conditions such as headaches, joint pains, muscular aches, back pains, etc. This drug is based on an NSAID called ibuprofen.
It is equally essential not to take multiple forms of NSAIDs at the same time. On the same vein, keep away from long-action NSAIDs as the risks of gastrointestinal problems become integral to such medication plans. It is unsafe to take NSAIDs – either of the short-action or long-action genres – for a longer duration. It becomes necessary to take the opinion of a qualified medical practitioner prior to starting a long term medication plan.
The risks of renal problems or cardiac events are higher in elderly or older people. Also, inform your treating physician of the other drugs you are presently taking. Make a list of all meds you are taking; as you are making this list, ensure to add over the counter (OTC) meds, prescription drugs, vitamin supplements, protein or mineral aids, herbal meds as well as dietary aids. Those who plan to take a shot of a vaccine must keep their physician informed of upcoming shot(s).
If you are witnessing side effects such as nausea, diarrhea or discharge of watery stools, formation of gas, acid reflux (also known as GERD), you are advised to consult with your treating doctor. If you are sensing signs of a possible heart attack – i.e., pain in your chest, muscular weakness, numbing of organs – coupled with palpitations, seek medical help on an emergency mode. Those living in the US are advised to call 911 without delay or reach out to the helpdesk of FDA for needful clinical help. On the other hand, if you are a resident of a Canadian province, establish contact with Health Canada or go to a poison control unit.
NSAIDs – in general – are known to cause internal bleeding as well as ulcers. The longer one takes these drugs, the higher are the odds of such stomach problems. However, drugs such as ibuprofen are less likely to cause stomach ulcers because of its short-action. It is anyway safer to take this drug at lesser dosage strengths.
Likely risks of cardiac problems: NSAIDs are known to trigger risks of thrombosis or clotting of blood. This risk is linked to the blocking of COX-2 enzyme. Owing to these risks, the daily dose of NSAIDs like Advil is maintained at less than 1,200 mg within a 24-hour timeline. Intake of dosage strength of 2,000 to 2,400 mg per day can trigger heart related ailments.
In this light, it is important to tell your caregiving team of recent episodes of strokes or heart attack. In such instances, studies indicate that a few doses of ibuprofen can aggravate the risks of a cardiac attack. Also, if you are living with autoimmune conditions such as diabetes mellitus or high / low blood sugar, the odds of cardiac events as well as renal problems tend to get higher. It is a safe practice to talk to your treating physician and seek safer alternatives. For example: drugs such as acetaminophen are preferred to NSAIDs in such instances.
Education: Bachelor’s in Journalism with a minor in Nutrition from Northwestern University. Experience: 15 years as a health journalist, writing for major publications like The New York Times and TIME, with a focus on diet, exercise, and chronic disease management.
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