Common Questions about Acetaminophen

Are acetaminophen and ibuprofen the same?

Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are not the same. However, there are some similarities between the two. Both are used to treat pain and fever and are available without a prescription. The difference between them is that ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and is more effective in reducing swelling and inflammation compared to acetaminophen (Mapap Arthritis Pain, Tylenol). Also, acetaminophen can be hard on the liver, while ibuprofen can be hard on the kidneys.

Is paracetamol the same as acetaminophen?

Yes, paracetamol and acetaminophen are the same things. Acetaminophen is the name used in the United States. Paracetamol is the official proprietary name of the medicine and is used everywhere else in the world.

What is stronger, acetaminophen or ibuprofen?

Acetaminophen helps with fever and pain, while ibuprofen helps with fever, pain, swelling, and inflammation. Ibuprofen may be more effective for certain types of pain.

How quickly does acetaminophen work?

Acetaminophen works quickly, usually within 30 minutes. This medicine reaches peak plasma concentration around 90 minutes after you take a dose.

Does acetaminophen help you sleep?

Acetaminophen does not directly help you sleep. However, it can help to reduce minor aches and pains which may be keeping you up at night, and in this way, it can indirectly improve your sleep. A combination medicine called Tylenol PM contains acetaminophen and diphenhydramine, and this product can help you sleep.

Is it safe to take acetaminophen every day?

Acetaminophen is meant to be used on a short-term basis to treat fever and pain. Taking this medication every day for the long term can cause liver damage. You should talk to your doctor if your pain is no better after 10 days or your fever does not go away after 3 days of taking acetaminophen.

What is the price of acetaminophen without insurance?

Without insurance, acetaminophen can be as high as $20.77, but with a free BuzzRx prescription discount coupon, you could pay as low as $6.26 for the most common version of this medication. Use the BuzzRx drug price look-up tool to find the lowest discounted price, and be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity for the most accurate pricing. While generics tend to have the best savings, you can also use your BuzzRx card and coupons to purchase brand-name versions. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescription drugs—whether you have insurance or not.

What is the price of acetaminophen with insurance?

Ask your pharmacist or insurance provider for your copay price on acetaminophen—copay amounts vary depending on the type of insurance plan you have and if there is a deductible to reach before prescription drug coverage begins.

You could save up to 80% on your prescription medication with a free BuzzRx discount coupon for acetaminophen. When using the BuzzRx lookup tool to find the price of your medicine, be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity to receive the most accurate discounted pricing. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not.