Should i take tylenol or advil for my headache?

Should you take Tylenol or Advil for your headache?

Tylenol (acetaminophen) reduces pain and fever by acting on the brain. It works well when inflammation is not the main driver of pain.

Advil (ibuprofen) lowers pain, fever, and inflammation by blocking COX enzymes. It tends to be more effective for headaches tied to muscle tension or sinus swelling.

How do the side-effect profiles differ?
Tylenol can harm the liver if you exceed 4,000 mg in 24 hours or drink alcohol heavily. Advil can irritate the stomach, raise blood pressure, and increase bleeding risk, especially in people over 65 or those with kidney issues.

Can you switch between them?
Many adults alternate doses when pain persists, spacing them at least three hours apart, but check with a pharmacist if you have chronic conditions or take other medications.

Does one work faster?
Both start working in 30–60 minutes. Liquid gels or dissolvable forms may shave off a few minutes for either drug.

Who should avoid each option?
Skip Tylenol if you have advanced liver disease. Skip Advil if you have active stomach ulcers, recent heart surgery, or severe kidney impairment. Pregnant women in the third trimester should avoid Advil.

When should you see a doctor instead?
Seek care if the headache is sudden and severe, follows a head injury, lasts more than a few days, or occurs with fever, stiff neck, vision changes, or confusion.

Sources:
[1] https://www.fda.gov/drugs/safe-use-over-counter-pain-relievers
[2] https://www.mayoclinic.org/first-aid/first-aid-headache/basics/art-20056670