Los mitos en torno al paracetamol y el ibuprofeno

Summary

In this informative video, Mala Gráfica Boti García debunks five common myths about paracetamol and ibuprofen. She clarifies that higher dosages do not necessarily mean better efficacy, warns against chronic use of ibuprofen which can exacerbate headaches and cause liver or kidney problems, and advises against alternating these medications for fever without medical guidance to avoid overdose. She also highlights the differences in their effects, with ibuprofen being anti-inflammatory and paracetamol not, and dispels the myth that a stomach protector is always needed when taking ibuprofen, stressing that it should only be used as directed by a healthcare professional.

Takeaways

• 💊 The first myth is that a higher dose of pain medication is more effective. However, 600 milligrams of ibuprofen has not been shown to be more effective for minor headaches than 400 milligrams.
• 🚫 The second myth is that taking ibuprofen daily has no issues and can be taken like snacks. Actually, chronic use can worsen headaches and potentially cause liver or kidney problems.
• 📋 The third myth involves taking ibuprofen and paracetamol alternately every 4 hours for fever. This is not recommended due to the risk of overdose and should only be done under a doctor's guidance for very high fevers.
• 🔄 The fourth myth is that ibuprofen and paracetamol are interchangeable. They have different properties, with ibuprofen being anti-inflammatory and analgesic, while paracetamol is analgesic and antipyretic.
• ⚠️ The fifth myth is that taking a stomach protector is always necessary when taking ibuprofen. Omeprazole is not indicated as a stomach protector for everyone taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs unless there are pre-existing conditions or a history of ulcers.
• 💡 Paracetamol over 1 gram requires a prescription, but 500 milligrams or 650 milligrams can be purchased over the counter and are equally effective for headaches.
• 🌍 Some countries primarily use lower dosages of ibuprofen, such as 200 or 300 milligrams, with the same efficacy as higher dosages.
• 🤒 For fever reduction, alternating ibuprofen and paracetamol is not more effective than using one consistently, and it can lead to an overdose.
• 💡 It's important to follow the dosage prescribed by a healthcare professional and not to use medication unnecessarily.
• 💥 Chronic use of pain medication can lead to increased pain, a condition known as medication overuse headache.
• 📚 Understanding the differences between ibuprofen and paracetamol is crucial for appropriate use and to avoid side effects on the stomach or liver.

Q & A

What is the first myth discussed in the video about paracetamol and ibuprofen?

The first myth is that a higher dose of medication is more effective. The video clarifies that 600 milligrams of ibuprofen has not been shown to be more effective for mild headaches than 400 milligrams, and the same applies to paracetamol.

Why is it not recommended to buy paracetamol in dosages higher than 650 milligrams without a prescription?

Since last year, paracetamol in dosages of one gram requires a prescription due to the potential for misuse and overdose. Lower dosages like 500 milligrams or 650 milligrams are available without a prescription and are effective for headache relief.

What is the second myth about ibuprofen mentioned in the video?

The second myth is that taking ibuprofen daily has no problems and can be taken like snacks. However, chronic use can worsen headaches and may cause liver or kidney problems.

Why should we not use ibuprofen or paracetamol without a need?

We should only use these medications as directed by a healthcare professional and when necessary to avoid potential side effects and complications.

What is the third myth about taking medication for fever mentioned in the video?

The third myth is that it's effective to alternate taking ibuprofen and paracetamol every 4 hours to reduce fever. However, this can lead to an overdose and is not recommended unless advised by a doctor in cases of very high fever.

Why is it not advisable to alternate between ibuprofen and paracetamol for fever without medical advice?

Alternating without advice can lead to an accidental overdose, as one might forget the last dose taken and repeat it too soon.

What is the difference between ibuprofen and paracetamol according to the fourth myth discussed?

The fourth myth clarifies that ibuprofen is an analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic, while paracetamol is only an analgesic and antipyretic, lacking anti-inflammatory properties. This makes ibuprofen more suitable for inflammation or more intense pain.

Why is it a misconception that all ibuprofen and paracetamol are the same?

They are not the same due to their different medical properties and side effects. Ibuprofen can affect the stomach, while paracetamol may affect the liver, so caution is needed when using them.

What is the fifth myth about taking a stomach protector with ibuprofen?

The myth is that one should always take a stomach protector like omeprazole when taking ibuprofen. However, omeprazole is not routinely indicated for everyone taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) unless there are pre-existing conditions or a history of ulcers.

Why is it not necessary to take omeprazole with every ibuprofen dose for a minor ailment like a headache or a sprain?

Omeprazole is not needed unless specifically indicated by a doctor, especially for short-term use of ibuprofen due to minor issues like headaches or sprains.

What is the main message of the video regarding the use of ibuprofen and paracetamol?

The main message is to be aware of the myths surrounding these medications, understand their proper use, and follow medical advice to avoid misuse and potential health risks.