If you’re 16 or over, you may wish to use paracetamol and ibuprofen together, to reduce pain and fever. There are no known harmful interactions between paracetamol and ibuprofen in people over 16.
For information applying to children, go to Can I give my child paracetamol and ibuprofen together?
Choose paracetamol first
Paracetamol should always be your first choice, because it has fewer side effects than ibuprofen.
Taking both medicines together
It’s best to take paracetamol first. Then take ibuprofen 1-2 hours later, but only if the paracetamol has not helped your symptoms. If necessary, you can take further doses at the same time, as long as you take care to avoid overdosing on either medicine.
Check if you still need both medicines
Each day, you should reconsider whether you still need to take both paracetamol and ibuprofen. It's best to avoid taking unnecessary medicines.
If your symptoms continue, you should contact your GP or call NHS Direct on 0845 4647.
Further information:
