Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen, the active ingredients contained in Tylenol and Advil respectively, are two of the most common over the counter pain analgesics. As with any medication, the side effects are dose-dependent, and may be elevated in conjunction with alcohol consumption. In a society that demands a disclaimer on our fast food coffee, it seems appropriate that these drugs should carry a warning label as well.
In large quantities, acetaminophen can induce acute hepatoxicity. The liver is an essential organ in digestive metabolism via the hepatic portal system, to reduce contaminants entering systemic circulation. For this reason, the combination of alcohol and Tylenol should be avoided, due to the extra stress placed on the liver.
In contrast, ibuprofen can induce gastric bleeding with inappropriate use. The mechanism of this drug inhibits the constitutively expressed COX-1 in the stomach, which may have protective effects on the stomach lining. Ibuprofen also has blood thinning effects, which also increases the chance of gastric bleeding.
The moral of the story? Ibuprofen and acetaminophen are effective analgesics when taken in moderation. Anything can be toxic to the body in large doses, so following dosage instructions is important in reducing the risk of developing side effects.
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You raise a very interesting point about warning label on over-the-counter pain releivers. I'm aware that alcohol and aspirin are absorbed through the stomach, do you or anyone else know whether or not acetaminophen and ibuprofen are? I'm not too familiar with the different types of medication.
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