Meds belonging to a genre called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) help manage different types of pains. The discomforts such meds treat can vary; the range includes backache, toothache, headaches, pain in lower abdomen or muscles and pains caused by autoimmune problems such as arthritis. NSAIDs can also be administered for the treatment of signs of infections – for example, pains caused by flu / common cold, fever, etc. In this light, what are the key differences in between ibuprofen and aspirin? It is a vital thing to understand how each of these drugs differs from the other.
What is ibuprofen?
Ibuprofen is an NSAID and it controls essential chemicals that your body makes naturally to trigger an inflammation or internal swelling. Ibuprofen is categorized under non-selective class of NSAIDs. The key chemicals of this drug block the action of COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes. You need to know that COX-1 is linked to inner linings of the stomach and COX-2 manages the extent of inflammation – as response to pain. Consumption of ibuprofen can help relieve pains of many kinds but is likely to cause abdominal problems.
In some cases, this med has been administered for the management of chronic pains caused by arthritis or other autoimmune problems. This med is taken through the oral route. Typical dosage is one in every 5 hours; it is recommended to swallow it with a few ounces of water. In a few users, this ibuprofen can trigger a spell of abdominal upset; for those people, it is advised to consume the med along with food.
What is aspirin?
This is the first med discovered in the genre of NSAIDs. Generic version of aspirin is called acetylsalicylic acid. This drug is used for a variety of uses such as treatment of pains, inflammation as well as to decrease the risk of cardiac arrests / heart attacks. Though a regular intake of aspirin is known to wade off cardiac risks, the dosage plan is not for all. In some people, the drug is taken to reduce likely onset of thrombosis or blood clots.
Differences between ibuprofen and aspirin
A main difference is aspirin may trigger side effects in the gastric tract than ibuprofen. However, the risks of other adverse effects remain the same for both meds. Also, aspirin is generally not administered onto children aged less than 12 years. Also, teens (till 17 years of age) who are down with a viral infection must not take aspirin.
Owing to lesser risks associated with the gastric system, ibuprofen is preferred to aspirin. This also enables ibuprofen to be used for a fairly longer duration than aspirin. On the other hand, aspirin is used only for a shorter duration – based on the extent of pains and associated discomforts.
Precautions associated with the intake of NSAIDs like aspirin or ibuprofen
NSAIDs are known to trigger internal bleeding and / or ulcers. In this light, it is important to tell your caregiver / pharmacist of recent spells of ulcers and abdominal conditions. Moreover, people living with autoimmune problems like low / high level of blood sugar, risks of renal conditions tend to get large. It is hence a good practice to consult with your treating doctor, and seek safer meds.
For instance, people who are sensitive to the active chemicals of NSAIDs (either aspirin or ibuprofen), alternatives like acetaminophen / paracetamol are administered. Last but not least, those who have cardiac problems or kidney related problems must talk to their physician prior to starting your medication plan. If you sense very adverse side effects, call 911 (those in US) or report to a poison control cell (if you are in Canada) closer to where you live.
Education: Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) from the University of Florida. Experience: 5 years as a pharmacist and medical writer, creating content on medication management and pharmaceutical news for healthcare blogs and patient education sites.
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