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You have a headache, backache, or toothache, and at the pharmacy you see paracetamol, ibuprofen, and Enantyum, unsure which to choose. As a quick guide, paracetamol is generally preferred for fever or mild pain, ibuprofen for inflammation, and Enantyum is reserved for mild to moderate acute pain in short-term treatments and under medical supervision.
Is paracetamol the preferred pain reliever for common pain and fever?
Paracetamol is primarily used to reduce fever and relieve moderate pain, such as headaches, flu-like symptoms, or muscle aches without obvious inflammation. It is often the first choice for many people because it is less irritating to the stomach than other painkillers.
High doses or prolonged use can damage the liver, especially if you drink alcohol or have liver disease. Therefore, it is important to respect the maximum daily dose indicated in the package leaflet. paracetamol and use it for the shortest time possible.
Ibuprofen: When to choose it if there is inflammation?
He Ibuprofen can be more useful. For example in sprains, bruises, toothache with swollen gums, or painful periods. It can also reduce fever and relieve muscle or joint pain.
This medication can cause stomach problems. High doses or long-term treatment may also increase kidney or cardiovascular risks in some people.
Ibuprofen 400 mg can be purchased without a prescription, while 600 mg requires a prescription, so it's advisable to follow the pharmacy's or doctor's instructions. If you have a history of ulcers, kidney disease, or are taking blood thinners, seek professional advice before taking it.
When is Enantyum appropriate as a pain reliever for acute pain?
Dexketoprofen, the active ingredient of Enantyum, is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug indicated for the short-term treatment of acute pain of mild to moderate intensity, such as musculoskeletal pain, menstrual pain, or dental pain.
It is used in adults and should be taken for the shortest possible time to relieve symptoms, following the dose recommended in the leaflet or as indicated by a healthcare professional.
Like other NSAIDs, it can cause gastrointestinal discomfort and may be contraindicated in cases of certain digestive or kidney problems. In Spain, Enantyum is a prescription medication, meaning it is dispensed with a prescription and is not intended for routine self-medication.
Quick comparison table of paracetamol, ibuprofen and Enantyum
| Medicine | Most frequent type of pain | Does it work if there is inflammation? | Key precautions | Does it require a prescription in Spain? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paracetamol | Fever and mild to moderate general pain | It does not treat inflammation. | Risk of liver damage if the dose is exceeded or if it is mixed with alcohol. | No, available up to 1g without a prescription. |
| Ibuprofen | Pain with an inflammatory component, fever, menstrual or muscular pain | Yes, it is anti-inflammatory. | Stomach irritation and possible kidney or cardiovascular risks in some patients | It depends; up to 400 mg is available without a prescription, but 600 mg requires one. |
| Enantyum (dexketoprofen) | Short-term mild to moderate acute pain, such as musculoskeletal pain, dysmenorrhea, or toothache | Yes, it's also anti-inflammatory. | Digestive and renal risks associated with NSAIDs and other contraindications | Yes, it always requires a prescription. |
In summary, if you have a fever or mild pain without visible inflammation, paracetamol is usually the most recommended option. If the problem is a sprain, tooth inflammation, or very painful periods, ibuprofen may be more suitable if your doctor or pharmacist sees no contraindications. For some specific acute pains, Enantyum should only be used for short-term treatment and with a prescription.
If you plan to mix the two, take a moment to check when it is actually safe to take Enantyum together with paracetamol . When there is any uncertainty about doses, how many days to use painkillers, or whether they fit with certain diseases and medicines, consult the official leaflet and get advice from a pharmacist or a doctor before taking them.
