Paracetamol vs ibuprofen?

Analgesic-antipyretic

Paracetamol (Acetaminophen)

Brand examples (illustrative): Crocin, Dolo, Calpol (examples)

Fever and pain reliever — safe at correct doses, dangerous in overdose.

Updated: 15 August 2026 · Review: pending — placeholder

Educational information only. Medication decisions should be made with a qualified healthcare professional. This page provides no personalised doses and never advises starting, stopping or changing prescriptions. In case of side effects or overdose, seek care promptly.

Common indications & general mechanism

Fever
Headache, body ache
Cold-related pains

How it generally works: Acts centrally to reduce pain and fever; minimal anti-inflammatory effect.

Side effects & serious effects

Common

Rare at correct doses

Serious (seek care)

Liver failure in overdose or with alcohol excess / chronic high doses

Contraindications, interactions & monitoring

Who should not use / needs caution

Known allergy
Severe liver disease (dose caution)

Drug interactions

Alcohol excess
Warfarin (with regular use — monitor INR)

Food interactions

Can take with or without food

Monitoring

Total daily dose from ALL sources (cold syrups often hide paracetamol)

Pregnancy, kidney/liver & warnings

Pregnancy: Generally preferred for fever in pregnancy at lowest effective dose — confirm with obstetrician.
Kidney/liver: Liver disease and alcohol use: strict dose limits.

Important warnings

Adults: usually max 3–4 g/day in divided doses; never exceed label.
Multiple cold medicines together can accidentally overdose — read every label.

Common misconceptions

Myth: Dolo 650 is weak so doubling is fine.

Fact: Doubling doubles liver risk. Follow dose and interval strictly.

FAQs

Paracetamol is gentler on stomach and safer in dengue-suspected fever (avoid NSAIDs). Ibuprofen adds anti-inflammatory effect but irritates stomach and kidneys.

References

WHO Essential Medicines Guidance — WHO

Related conditions & tests

Fever Guide Headache Guide Migraine LFT

This website provides general educational information and is not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, treatment or emergency care. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Pregnancy, kidney/liver & warnings

Pregnancy: Generally preferred for fever in pregnancy at lowest effective dose — confirm with obstetrician.
Kidney/liver: Liver disease and alcohol use: strict dose limits.

Important warnings

Adults: usually max 3–4 g/day in divided doses; never exceed label.
Multiple cold medicines together can accidentally overdose — read every label.