Classes
DEA Class; OTC
Common Brand Names; Advil Dual Action
- Analgesics, Other Combos
Description
Acetaminophen
Acts on hypothalamus to produce antipyresis
May work peripherally to block pain impulse generation; may also inhibit prostaglandin synthesis in CNS
Ibuprofen
Elicits anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic activity
Inhibits synthesis of prostaglandins in body tissues by inhibiting at least 2 cyclooxygenase (COX) isoenzymes, COX-1 and COX-2
May inhibit chemotaxis, alter lymphocyte activity, decrease proinflammatory cytokine activity, and inhibit neutrophil aggregation; these effects may contribute to its anti-inflammatory activity
Indications
Indicated for temporary relief of mild pain caused by headache, backache, muscular aches, toothache, menstrual cramps, minor pain of arthritis
Contraindications
Ibuprofen
Hypersensitivity to ibuprofen, other NSAIDs, aspirin, or excipients
Perioperative pain in setting of CABG surgery
Acetaminophen
Hypersensitivity
Severe active liver disease
Warnings
Acetaminophen hepatotoxicity possible in chronic alcoholics following various dose levels
Severe or recurrent pain or high or continued fever may indicate a serious illness
Ibuprofen
If pregnant or breastfeeding, ask a health professional before use; it is especially important not to use ibuprofen at 20 weeks or later in pregnancy unless definitely directed to do so by a doctor; it may cause problems in the unborn child or complications during delivery
Keep out of reach of children; in case of overdose, get medical help or contact a poison control center right away; prompt medical attention is critical for adults as well as for children even if you do not notice any signs or symptoms
Pregnancy and Lactation
Pregnancy;
Ask a health professional before use; it is especially important not to use ibuprofen at 20 weeks or later in pregnancy unless definitely directed to do so by a doctor because it may cause problems in the unborn child or complications during delivery; NSAID use during third trimester increases risk of premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus
Lacation:
Ibuprofen
Considered compatible with breastfeeding (LactMed)
No lactation studies have been conducted; however, limited published literature reports that following oral administration, ibuprofen is present in human milk at relative infant doses of 0.06-0.6% of the maternal weight-adjusted daily dose
Acetaminophen
Considered compatible with breastfeeding (LactMed)
Maximum Dosage
Acetaminophen containing products: Not to exceed a cumulative dose of 3.25 g/day of acetaminophen; under supervision of healthcare professional, daily doses of up to 4 g/day may be used
Pediatric
<12 years: Safety and efficacy not established
≥12 years: 2 tablets PO q8hr while symptoms persist; not to exceed 6 tablets/day, unless directed by physician