Aspirin, Motrin (ibuprofen), and Tylenol (acetaminophen) are commonly used over-the-counter medications for pain relief and fever reduction, but they differ in the way the work, side effects and why to use them. Aspirin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that not only helps reduece pain and inflammation but also has blood-thinning properties, making it beneficial for heart health. Aspirin should not be used in children (under 18yo) as it can cause Reye's syndrome, which can cause severe liver and brain damage.
Motrin, another NSAID, is effective for pain relief and reducing inflammation, often used for conditions like arthritis. However, long-term use of Motrin can lead to stomach ulcers and kidney issues. aspirin should not be used in children (under 18yo) as it can cause Reye's syndrome, which can cause severe liver and brain damage.
In contrast, Tylenol is not an NSAID but still helps with pain and fever by acting on the brain. It is gentler on the stomach compared to NSAIDs but can be harmful to the liver excessively.
When deciding between these medications, factors such as the type of pain, individual health conditions, and potential side effects should be considered.