Q: Is it better to stick to one pain reliever (ibuprofen or acetaminophen) or to switch off every other use?
A: I’ve heard that one affects one organ and the other affects another.
Alternating these products may help to prevent side effects (one with potential damage to the liver and the other to kidneys). It is a strategy frequently used for pediatric patients with high fevers. If this is for an adult patient being treated for pain, I would just question if there may be a better alternative than ibuprofen and acetaminophen if they are requiring that much medication.
Barry Baird
Director, Trident Health System Pharmacy
Director, Trident Health System Pharmacy
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