Combining Tylenol and Advil to reduce fever and pain in children and adults
February 22, 2021When deciding what medication to use for pain management or fever reduction, many people turn to two of the best over-the-counter options: Tylenol (acetaminophen) and Advil or Motrin (ibuprofen). Both are available in name-brand or store-brand varieties, and the later work equally well.
Often, those looking for pain relief assume they must choose one medication or the other when, in fact, it is possible to use both medications together as each is processed differently by the body—acetaminophen is processed through the liver while ibuprofen clears through the kidneys. Additionally, studies have indicated that, when combined correctly, acetaminophen and ibuprofen provide greater relief than when used independently of one another.
For Adults and children over age 12
Researchers have recently investigated just how powerful the combination of acetaminophen and ibuprofen are in managing pain in adults. Studies indicate that, when combined, the two offer an equal level of pain relief as opioid narcotics.
For children over the age of 12 and adults, both medications may be taken together at the same time. It is important to note the recommended dosage limits for adults and children over the age of 12:
- 3,000 mg per day for acetaminophen
- 1,200 mg per day for ibuprofen
In March of 2020, the FDA approved the first over-the-counter acetaminophen and ibuprofen combination drug in the U.S. Labeled Advil Dual Action, the medication is currently available at drugstores and grocery markets and contains 125mg of ibuprofen and 250mg of acetaminophen per tablet. Always read packaging labels and talk your doctor before starting a new medication.
The release of this drug is promising news as doctors look for alternatives to narcotics while the nation continues to battle the opioid epidemic.
For Fever Reduction in Children Under 12
When children experience fever, a caregiver’s first reaction is to try to eliminate it. While we want to offer medication that makes children more comfortable, it is important to remember that fever serves an important role in fighting infection. The presence of fever is a positive indication that the body’s immune response is working properly.
However, to provide comfort, choose either a children’s acetaminophen or ibuprofen and follow the dose directions on the back of the bottle. If one medication does not seem to work sufficiently to reduce fever or pain in children age 12 and under, the key is to alternate between acetaminophen and ibuprofen: administer one medication at 10 a.m., 2 p.m., and 6 p.m., and the other at 12 p.m., 4 p.m., and 8 p.m.
It is important to read the back of the package for dosing recommendations, and always check with your pediatrician before starting a new medication.
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Uses
Temporarily relieves minor aches and pains due to:
- Headache
- Toothache
- Backache
- Menstrual cramps
- Muscular aches
- Minor pain of arthritis
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Dosage
12 years of age and older:
- 2 caplets every 8 hours while symptoms persist.
- Do not take more than 6 caplets in 24 hours, unless directed to by a doctor.
Under 12 years of age:
- Ask a doctor.
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Ingredients
Active ingredient:
- Acetaminophen 250mg….Pain reliever
- Ibuprofen 125mg (NSAID*)…..Pain reliever
- *Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug
Inactive Ingredients:
- Carnauba wax, colloidal silicon dioxide, croscarmellose sodium, ferric oxides, glyceryl dibehenate, hypromellose, pharmaceutical ink, polydextrose, polyethylene glycol, pregelatinized starch, titanium dioxide.
Use as directed. Read complete warnings and information.
View full product labeling
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Potential Health Effects
This product is indicated for adults and children ages 12 and older. Ask a doctor before giving to children under the age of 12. Do not take more than 6 caplets in 24 hours unless instructed to do so by a doctor. This product contains acetaminophen, which may cause severe liver damage if you take it with other drugs that contain acetaminophen, with 3 or more alcoholic drinks, or if you exceed maximum daily dosage. This product also contains ibuprofen, which may cause allergic reaction, especially in those allergic to aspirin. See product label for full product information and warnings.
Acetaminophen, also known as paracetamol, should not be taken with other medicines that also contain acetaminophen. Acetaminophen is contained in many medicines to treat pain, fever, symptoms of cold and flu, and sleep medicines. Do not take more than recommended dose, as this may be harmful, including serious harm to your liver. If you have liver or kidney disease, talk to your doctor before taking acetaminophen.
See product label for full product information and warnings.
Top Questions About Advil Dual Action
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Does Advil contain acetaminophen?
Advil Dual Action is the only Advil product that contains Acetaminophen. Advil Dual Action fights pain in two ways: Acetaminophen blocks pain signals while Ibuprofen targets pain at the source.
Symptoms & Tips
Compare Advil Products
Count 300
Form Tablets
Key feature Easy to swallow
Ingredient Ibuprofen
Easy to swallow ✓
Fast-acting ✓
Duration Up to 6h
Dosage 1 tablet every 4 - 6 hours. If symptoms persist, 2 may be used. Do not exceed 6 tablets in 24h unless directed by a doctor. Under 12 y/o: Ask a doctor.
Count 200
Form Capsules
Key feature Small and easy to swallow
Ingredient Liquid Ibuprofen
Easy to swallow ✓
Fast-acting ✓
Duration Up to 6h
Dosage 1 capsule every 4 - 6 hours. If symptoms persist, 2 may be used. Do not exceed 6 capsules in 24h unless directed by a doctor. Under 12 y/o: Ask a doctor.
Count 160
Form Capsules
Key feature Fast-acting
Ingredient Liquid Ibuprofen
Easy to swallow ✓
Fast-acting ✓
Duration Up to 6h
Dosage 1 capsule every 4 - 6 hours. If symptoms persist, 2 may be used. Do not exceed 6 capsules in 24h unless directed by a doctor. Under 12 y/o: Ask a doctor.
Count 200
Form Tablets
Key feature Easy open cap
Ingredient Ibuprofen
Fast-acting ✓
Duration Up to 6h
Dosage 1 tablet every 4 - 6 hours. If symptoms persist, 2 may be used. Do not exceed 6 tablets in 24h unless directed by a doctor. Under 12 y/o: Ask a doctor.
Count 144
Form Caplets
Key feature Long-lasting
Ingredient Ibuprofen / Acetaminophen
Fast-acting ✓
Duration Up to 8h
Dosage 2 caplets every 8 hours. Do not exceed 6 caplets in 24h unless directed by a doctor. Under 12 y/o: Ask a doctor.
Count 80
Form Capsules
Key feature Fast-acting
Ingredient Sulobilized Ibuprofen / Diphenhydramine
Easy to swallow ✓
Fast-acting ✓
Duration Up to 6h
Dosage Take 2 capsules at bedtime. Do not take more than 2 capsules in 24h.
Count 160
Form Capsules
Key feature Fast-acting
Ingredient Liquid Ibuprofen
Easy to swallow ✓
Fast-acting ✓
Duration Up to 6h
Dosage 1 capsule every 4 - 6 hours. If symptoms persist, 2 may be used. Do not exceed 6 capsules in 24h unless directed by a doctor. Under 12 y/o: Ask a doctor.
Count 200
Form Capsules
Key feature Small and easy to swallow
Ingredient Liquid Ibuprofen
Easy to swallow ✓
Fast-acting ✓
Duration Up to 6h
Dosage 1 capsule every 4 - 6 hours. If symptoms persist, 2 may be used. Do not exceed 6 capsules in 24h unless directed by a doctor. Under 12 y/o: Ask a doctor.
Count 200
Form Tablets
Key feature Easy open cap
Ingredient Ibuprofen
Fast-acting ✓
Duration Up to 6h
Dosage 1 tablet every 4 - 6 hours. If symptoms persist, 2 may be used. Do not exceed 6 tablets in 24h unless directed by a doctor. Under 12 y/o: Ask a doctor.
Count 144
Form Caplets
Key feature Long-lasting
Ingredient Ibuprofen / Acetaminophen
Fast-acting ✓
Duration Up to 8h
Dosage 2 caplets every 8 hours. Do not exceed 6 caplets in 24h unless directed by a doctor. Under 12 y/o: Ask a doctor.
Count 80
Form Capsules
Key feature Fast-acting
Ingredient Sulobilized Ibuprofen / Diphenhydramine
Easy to swallow ✓
Fast-acting ✓
Duration Up to 6h
Dosage Take 2 capsules at bedtime. Do not take more than 2 capsules in 24h.
Count 160
Form Capsules
Key feature Fast-acting
Ingredient Liquid Ibuprofen
Easy to swallow ✓
Fast-acting ✓
Duration Up to 6h
Dosage 1 capsule every 4 - 6 hours. If symptoms persist, 2 may be used. Do not exceed 6 capsules in 24h unless directed by a doctor. Under 12 y/o: Ask a doctor.
Count 300
Form Tablets
Key feature Easy to swallow
Ingredient Ibuprofen
Easy to swallow ✓
Fast-acting ✓
Duration Up to 6h
Dosage 1 tablet every 4 - 6 hours. If symptoms persist, 2 may be used. Do not exceed 6 tablets in 24h unless directed by a doctor. Under 12 y/o: Ask a doctor.
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Advil can treat a variety of symptoms. Select one and we’ll help you narrow it down.
Advil can treat a variety of symptoms. Select one and we’ll help you narrow it down.
Advil can treat a variety of symptoms. Select one and we’ll help you narrow it down.