Differences between Aspirin and Ibuprofen
Contents
Aspirin vs. Ibuprofen[edit]
Aspirin and ibuprofen are both nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) used to treat pain, fever, and inflammation.[1][2] While they belong to the same class of medication and work in similar ways, they have distinct differences in their chemical structure, how they affect the body, and their recommended uses.[3][4] Both are available over-the-counter, but higher strengths may require a prescription.[1][5]
Aspirin, also known as acetylsalicylic acid, is a salicylate. It works by irreversibly blocking cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, which are involved in the production of prostaglandins and thromboxanes.[3] Prostaglandins are compounds that contribute to inflammation, pain, and fever, while thromboxanes are involved in blood clot formation.[3] Ibuprofen is also a non-selective COX inhibitor, but its action is reversible.[3]
Comparison Table[edit]
| Category | Aspirin | Ibuprofen |
|---|---|---|
| Drug Class | Salicylate, Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) | Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) |
| Mechanism of Action | Irreversibly inhibits COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes[3] | Reversibly inhibits COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes[3] |
| Primary Uses | Pain relief, fever reduction, anti-inflammatory, prevention of heart attacks and strokes | Pain relief, fever reduction, anti-inflammatory[5] |
| Effect on Blood Clotting | Strong antiplatelet effect; used to prevent blood clots | Mild effect on blood clotting; not used for cardiovascular protection[4][1] |
| Risk of Stomach Bleeding | Higher risk compared to ibuprofen | Lower risk at standard doses, but risk increases with higher doses and long-term use[4] |
| Use in Children | Not recommended for children under 12 or teens with viral illnesses due to the risk of Reye's syndrome | Approved for children 6 months of age and older[4] |
Cardiovascular Use[edit]
A significant difference between the two medications is their effect on blood platelets. Aspirin's irreversible inhibition of COX-1 in platelets prevents the formation of thromboxane A2, a substance that causes platelets to aggregate and form clots. This antiplatelet effect makes low-dose aspirin a common preventative therapy for individuals at high risk of heart attack and stroke. Ibuprofen has a much weaker and temporary effect on platelets and is not used for cardiovascular protection. Taking ibuprofen concurrently with aspirin may interfere with aspirin's antiplatelet effects.
Gastrointestinal Side Effects[edit]
Both aspirin and ibuprofen can cause gastrointestinal side effects, including stomach upset and bleeding, by inhibiting COX-1, which helps protect the stomach lining.[4][1] However, aspirin is generally associated with a higher risk of these complications. Ibuprofen is often preferred for managing chronic conditions that require long-term pain relief, such as arthritis, due to its lower risk of gastrointestinal issues at typical doses.[4]
Use in Children and Reye's Syndrome[edit]
Aspirin use in children and teenagers recovering from viral infections like influenza or chickenpox has been linked to Reye's syndrome, a rare but serious condition that causes swelling in the liver and brain. For this reason, aspirin is generally not recommended for individuals under 18 for treating fever or pain from viral illnesses.[4] Ibuprofen is considered a safer alternative for children over six months of age and is not associated with Reye's syndrome.
References[edit]
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 "healthline.com". Retrieved January 03, 2026.
- ↑ "clevelandclinic.org". Retrieved January 03, 2026.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 "withpower.com". Retrieved January 03, 2026.
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.6 "buzzrx.com". Retrieved January 03, 2026.
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 "medlineplus.gov". Retrieved January 03, 2026.
