Both Tylenol and Advil are popular over-the-counter pain relievers, but they work differently and have different safety profiles. Tylenol, which contains acetaminophen as its active ingredient, is generally considered a safer alternative to Advil, which contains ibuprofen.
According to Drug Patent Watch [1], Tylenol is a brand name for acetaminophen, which has been used for over 50 years to treat pain and fever. It works by blocking the production of certain chemicals in the brain that cause pain and fever. It is available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquid.
On the other hand, Advil, which is a brand name for ibuprofen, is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works by reducing inflammation and blocking the production of certain chemicals in the body that cause pain and fever. It is also available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquid [2].
While both drugs are effective at relieving pain and fever, they have different safety profiles. According to BuzzRx [2], Tylenol is generally considered safer than Advil because it has fewer side effects, especially when it comes to gastrointestinal problems. Advil can cause stomach upset, ulcers, and bleeding, especially when taken in high doses or for a long time. It can also increase the risk of heart attack and stroke, especially in people with a history of heart disease or high blood pressure.
In contrast, Tylenol is less likely to cause stomach problems, but it can be toxic to the liver if taken in large doses or for a long time. Overdosing on Tylenol can cause serious liver damage or even death. Therefore, it is important to follow the recommended dosage and not to take more than one product that contains acetaminophen at the same time [3].
In conclusion, both Tylenol and Advil are effective pain relievers, but they have different safety profiles. Tylenol is generally considered safer than Advil because it has fewer side effects, especially when it comes to gastrointestinal problems. However, it can be toxic to the liver if taken in large doses or for a long time. Therefore, it is important to follow the recommended dosage and not to take more than one product that contains acetaminophen at the same time. If you have any concerns about which pain reliever is right for you, it is best to consult your doctor or pharmacist [1][2][3].
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/TYLENOL
[2] https://www.buzzrx.com/blog/tylenol-vs-advil-which-is-better
[3] https://www.goodrx.com/ibuprofen/advil-ibuprofen-vs-tylenol-acetaminophen-side-effects