| When choosing a nonprescription analgesic, compare active ingredients for the effect you want and be sure you're aware of all side effects and special risks. | Aspirin | Acetaminophen | Ibuprofen | Naproxen sodium | | Sampling of brand names | | Ascriptin, Bayer, Bufferin, Ecotrin, Empirin | Excedrin Aspirin Free, Tylenol | Advil, Ibuprin, Motrin-IB | Aleve | | Reduces pain and fever? | | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | | Reduces inflammation? | | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | | Can cause stomach bleeding? | | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | | Length of pain relief | | 4 to 6 hours | 4 hours | 4 hours | 8 hours | | Special precautions | | Don't take if you're allergic to aspirin or have asthma, a bleeding disorder, gout or ulcers. | Overdoses can be toxic to the liver. Alcohol enhances the toxic effects of high doses. | Don't take if you're allergic to aspirin or have asthma, heart failure, kidney problems or ulcers. | Don't take if you're allergic to aspirin or have asthma, heart failure, kidney problems or ulcers. | | Children's use | | Don't give to children. Can cause Reye's syndrome — a life-threatening condition — in children with chickenpox, the flu or other viral illnesses. | Available for children. Dosages are based on age and weight. Consult your doctor. | Available for children. Dosages are based on age and weight. Consult your doctor. | Do not give to children younger than 12 unless your doctor has recommended it. |
Ketoprofen (Orudis) is similar to naproxen sodium in that it also reduces pain and fever, carries the same special precautions — don't take if you're allergic to aspirin or have asthma, heart failure, kidney problems or ulcers — and may cause gastrointestinal bleeding. An additional side effect, however, is ulceration. Ketoprofen differs from naproxen sodium in that it isn't recommended for children of any age. Its safety and effectiveness haven't been determined for children. This list is not comprehensive and is not an endorsement. MayoClinic.com has not tested these products but has relied instead on data supplied by the manufacturers.
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