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This is quite a common question. Aspirin and Ibuprofen are both very well known medications for pain relief, in fact they belong to the same...
This is quite a common question. Aspirin and Ibuprofen are both very well known medications for pain relief, in fact they belong to the same class of drugs called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. So it is understandable if you find yourself wondering what the difference between them is. Read on as we discuss aspirin vs ibuprofen, as well as the precautions and side effects of each medication.
Out of all the pain management options out there, aspirin and ibuprofen may be some of the most well known painkillers. So let’s discuss both of them individually. Aspirin (also known scientifically as acetylsalicylic acid) is a widely used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by blocking enzymes that produce chemicals that cause pain and inflammation. Aspirin also makes platelets (components of blood that help form clots) less sticky to prevent blood clots from forming. Aspirin is used to manage pain, fever, blood clots, and inflammation. Ibuprofen is another common NSAID, it also blocks enzymes to stop the production of pain and inflammation chemicals. Ibuprofen is used to manage inflammation and pain often from musculoskeletal and menstrual causes. So what is the difference between aspirin and ibuprofen?
Aspirin and ibuprofen are both non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), but they differ in their uses, safety considerations and effects on blood clotting. The table below summarises the main differences between them.
Aspirin column:
Ibuprofen column:
Neither aspirin nor ibuprofen is simply “stronger” in every situation. The more suitable option depends on the type of pain, the reason for treatment and the person’s medical history. Ibuprofen is commonly used for musculoskeletal pain such as back, joint and muscle pain because it can help reduce both pain and inflammation. If you are unsure which painkiller is suitable for you, or whether it can be taken alongside other general health medicines, speak to a pharmacist or healthcare professional.
When comparing aspirin and ibuprofen for pain relief, the more suitable option depends on the type of pain, age, medical history and other medicines being taken. Ibuprofen is commonly used for musculoskeletal pain such as back, joint and muscle pain because it can help reduce both pain and inflammation. Aspirin should not be given to children under 16 unless specifically prescribed by a doctor. Low-dose aspirin may be prescribed for its antiplatelet effect to help reduce the risk of certain cardiovascular events.
Both aspirin and ibuprofen can be used for pain and fever in adults, although the most suitable option depends on age, medical history and other medicines being taken. Aspirin should not be given to children under 16 unless specifically prescribed by a doctor.
Both aspirin and ibuprofen can reduce pain and inflammation, including symptoms associated with arthritis. However, regular or long-term NSAID use can increase the risk of gastrointestinal, kidney and cardiovascular side effects, so ongoing treatment should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
As with all medications, there are safety considerations and potential side effects associated with aspirin and ibuprofen that you should be aware of before taking either painkiller. Let’s go through some of them:
| Aspirin | Ibuprofen |
| • Can cause gastrointestinal side effects, including stomach irritation, ulcers or bleeding.
• Check with a doctor or pharmacist before use if you have a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding, certain forms of asthma, kidney or heart problems, or take blood-thinning medicines. • Aspirin should not be given to children under 16 unless specifically prescribed. |
• Can cause gastrointestinal side effects, including stomach irritation, ulcers or bleeding.
• Can affect kidney function and may not be suitable for some people with kidney or heart problems. • Check with a doctor or pharmacist before use if you have a history of stomach ulcers, asthma or a previous reaction to NSAIDs, are pregnant, or take interacting medicines. |
Aspirin and ibuprofen are both NSAIDs and should not usually be taken together for pain relief unless a doctor or pharmacist has advised it. Taking them together can increase the risk of side effects such as stomach irritation, ulcers or bleeding. If low-dose aspirin has been prescribed for its antiplatelet effect, check with a healthcare professional before using ibuprofen.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist for advice before using aspirin or ibuprofen if you have a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding problems, kidney or heart disease, asthma or a previous reaction to NSAIDs, are pregnant, or take anticoagulant, antiplatelet or other interacting medicines. Aspirin should not be given to children under 16 unless specifically prescribed.
If you have any further concerns or questions about whether aspirin or ibuprofen is suitable for you, please consult your doctor or your healthcare provider.
NSAIDs can interact with other medicines. Check the patient leaflet or speak to a pharmacist if you take regular medication.
| Medicine / group | Why caution is needed |
| Other NSAIDs | May increase the risk of side effects, including stomach irritation or bleeding. |
| Anticoagulants / antiplatelets | May increase bleeding risk. |
| Corticosteroids | May increase gastrointestinal side effects. |
| Some blood pressure medicines and diuretics | NSAIDs may affect how these medicines work and may increase kidney-related risks. |
| Methotrexate | NSAIDs may affect methotrexate levels and toxicity risk. |
Both aspirin and ibuprofen can be used for pain and inflammation, but the most suitable option depends on the reason for treatment, your age, medical history and other medicines you take. Meds for Less offers access to a range of pain-relief treatments, but medicine choice should still follow the product instructions and professional advice where needed.