How Do the Ingredients MOTRIN^® (Ibuprofen) and TYLENOL^® (Acetaminophen) Work?

Acetaminophen vs. Ibuprofen

Ever wonder what the differences between acetaminophen and ibuprofen are? We'll discuss what conditions they treat and how they work.

What Is Ibuprofen?

Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works by blocking cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes. These enzymes play an important role in the pain and inflammation processes in your body. By blocking the enzymes, ibuprofen helps alleviate aches and pain.¹

Ibuprofen, the active ingredient in MOTRIN® IB, temporarily relieves minor aches and pains due to:¹

Ibuprofen can be found in your local pharmacy or grocery store under the brand name MOTRIN®. Get quick relief with MOTRIN® IB Ibuprofen Liquid Gels. Additionally, you can treat your pesky migraine with MOTRIN® IB Migraine Ibuprofen Gels. Has your child come down with a fever? Children's MOTRIN® Oral Suspension and Children's MOTRIN® Chewable Ibuprofen Tablets alleviate fevers and pain in fun flavors they'll love.

What Is Acetaminophen?

Acetaminophen is a pain reliever and fever reducer that works differently than ibuprofen. It's important to note that acetaminophen isn't an NSAID.² Although the exact mechanism of action of acetaminophen is not known, it is thought to work by interacting with pain receptors in the brain and spinal cord.³

Acetaminophen, the active ingredient in TYLENOL®, is used to temporarily reduce fevers and relieve minor pain caused by:⁴

Acetaminophen is sold under the brand name TYLENOL®. TYLENOL® Rapid Release Gels quickly release medicine to help treat your aches and pains. Need to soothe your child's fever, aches, and pains? Children's TYLENOL® Dissolve Powder Packs or Children's TYLENOL® can help.

Difference Between Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen

While ibuprofen and acetaminophen treat similar conditions, they have their differences. Ibuprofen is an NSAID that treats pain and fever by blocking the enzymes called cyclooxygenases which helps to alleviate pain and lower fever.¹ On the other hand, acetaminophen – is thought to work in your brain and central nervous system to block pain signals.⁴

Ibuprofen is mainly broken down by the kidneys, and it can also affect your stomach.⁵ On the other hand, acetaminophen is mainly broken down by the liver.³ You should always read and follow the product labels for any products containing acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

Blocking vs. Targeting Pain

Ibuprofen works by directly attaching to and blocking the function of COX enzymes. On the other hand, researchers are still learning about how acetaminophen works to reduce pain and fever, but studies suggest that it may block pain signals in the central nervous system.^1,3

Pain Relief with MOTRIN® Dual Action with TYLENOL®

MOTRIN® Dual Action with TYLENOL® combines two well-known medications – ibuprofen and acetaminophen. Each powerful pain-relieving pill contains 125 milligrams of ibuprofen with 250 milligrams of acetaminophen to provide up to 8 hours of pain relief. By targeting two different pathways to alleviate your symptoms, MOTRIN® Dual Action with TYLENOL® is another option for minor aches and pains caused by:

Always read and follow the product label for important product information.

References

1. Ghlichloo I, Gerriets V. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs). StatPearls [Internet].
   May 19, 2022. Accessed from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK547742/

2. MedlinePlus. Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers. October 11, 2020. Accessed from: https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002123.htm

3. Ohashi N, Kohno T. Analgesic effect of acetaminophen: A review of known and
   novel mechanisms of action. Front Pharmacol. 2020;11:580289.

4. Gerriets V, Anderson J, Nappe TM. Acetaminophen. StatPearls [Internet]. September 18, 2022. Accessed from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482369/

5. Hörl WH. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and the kidney. Pharmaceuticals. 2010;3(7):2291-2321.