This post is presented by Bowman’s Pharmasave.

I was chatting with Dr Ouellette the other week and she mentioned that lots of moms ask her about the difference between Tylenol and Advil.  It’s a question that I get asked a lot in the pharmacy too so I thought it would make a perfect blog post for this month.

• Ibuprofen is the active ingredient in brands like Motrin, Advil,
• Acetaminophen is the active ingredient in brands like Tylenol.

Both of these ingredients have fever reducing properties. They work in different ways to reduce the levels of a compound in the body called Prostaglandin – which among many effects it has on our body systems one is to increase our core body temperature (fever).  These medications are safe to use together because they work in different ways to bring about the reduction in body temperature.

A Key difference between these 2 ingredients is how often they can be given and how much should be given – if ever you are not sure or have questions ask your pharmacist.

• Acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be given every 4-6 hours at a dose of 10-15mg/kg of body weight
• Ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin) can be given every 6-8 hours at a dose of 5-10mk/kg of body weight.

To get the most effect out of these medications we should always dose based on body weight and not age and remember that we can’t give ibuprofen products as frequently as acetaminophen based products.

Again, if you are ever unsure about dosing and timing of giving medications your pharmacist can help you.

The choice of medication used often comes down to personal preference and previous experience – when used correctly both Ibuprofen and acetaminophen are safe and effective in treating pain and fever.  It is worth noting that only at higher doses (above those that are recommended for children) does Ibuprofen exert any anti-inflammatory action.

Sometimes for children with Asthma we have to be careful with ibuprofen because in some susceptible children it can cause asthma to get worse.

We should also never give children aspirin due to the serious side effects in can cause.

Should we treat fever or let it pass?

• I often get asked this question too and the answer is it depends – fever is the body’s way of fighting an infection so if your child is otherwise comfortable – they are eating, drinking, playing and acting normal there is no reason to treat a fever – as Advil or Tylenol won’t make the infection go away any quicker.  But if they aren’t themselves then reducing fever by using Advil or Tylenol can help make them more comfortable so they can eat, drink and sleep and that normally helps mom too 😊
• Keep in mind most fevers are not dangerous but it is always recommended to see the doctor in the following cases:
• Your baby is less than 3 months old
  • The fever has lasted for more than 24 hours
  • The fever is accompanied with vomiting

A few other tips:

• To ensure accurate dosing always use the measuring device that comes with the product – the old kitchen spoon is not an accurate measuring device any more 😊
• Do not give more medication than recommended and be careful if treating cough and cold symptoms too as these products often contain acetaminophen or ibuprofen and we have to be careful that we aren’t giving the child too much medication.

I hope this post helped explain the choices when treating pain and fever in children and as always, any questions feel free to ask me or stop in by the pharmacy

Until next time enjoy the sunshine!

Paul

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Meet Paul Bowman | Owner & Pharmacist of Bowman’s Pharmasave

Paul was born and raised in Ellon, Scotland, located just outside the city of Aberdeen, Scotland.  He completed his Masters of Pharmacy at Robert Gordons University in Aberdeen, Scotland.  After working in Stirling, Scotland for a year as a staff pharmacist, he was recruited to work for a short term in Alberta as a pharmacist.  What was supposed to be a two year stay in Canada has turned into 14 years, and he was thrilled to become a Canadian citizen in 2016.

Paul has a passion for customer service having been in the service industry in one form or another since the age of 14.  Paul loves helping patients find ways to improve their health and ensure they thrive.  Paul will ensure that all patients and customers receive a great customer experience along with all the expert advice and guidance you would expect from your pharmacy team.

Paul and his wife Lindsay decided to make Fredericton their permanent home in 2015.  They instantly fell in love with the city, the friendliness of the people, recreation amenities and the charming downtown core with all its great restaurants and shops.