When you drink, the alcohol produces a by-product in your body called acetaldehyde. How fast and effective your body is in breaking down and eliminating this compound will determine how you feel the next day. In most cases, you will likely wake up with a Hangover. Over the years, people have come up with a myriad of hangover cures. The options range from natural products like ginger to patches and medicines. A common question among enthusiasts is whether to use Tylenol or Ibuprofen for hangovers.
- In this article, we review the two medicines and their effectiveness in alleviating hangover symptoms. We also consider whether you should use them at all.
Tylenol and Alcohol
Acetaminophen, better known as Tylenol, is a pain reliever and reduces fever. It is available over the counter and used by some people for hangovers to alleviate some symptoms such as headaches. A small dose can usually go a long way in relieving pain the next morning. However, like alcohol, Tylenol needs to be metabolized in the liver. Acute alcohol consumption can disrupt your liver’s ability to break it down, increasing your risk of liver damage. This is why some doctors maintain that Tylenol should not be used to treat hangovers.
- Large doses and extensive use are generally discouraged.
Ibuprofen and Alcohol
Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It can be used for hangovers to improve symptoms like muscle pain and headaches. However, you should steer clear of it when experiencing nausea or abdominal pain. This is because Ibuprofen is a gastric irritant and can exacerbate gastrointestinal problems.
When used chronically, Ibuprofen is also known to cause ulcers, stomach perforations, and gastrointestinal bleeding. It can also damage your kidneys. According to health experts, the risk increases when the medicine is taken together with alcohol.
Tylenol Vs. Ibuprofen
Ibuprofen has been shown to improve some hangover symptoms. It can alleviate muscle inflammation and headaches. However, it poses a risk to your gastrointestinal tract and kidneys. Tylenol, on the other hand, is generally discouraged for hangovers. This is because alcohol consumption tends to increase its toxicity, thus endangering your liver and kidneys.
Overall, both medications pose a risk to your health, especially in large doses or when taken for long periods. It is advisable to discuss Tylenol or Ibuprofen for a hangover with your doctor.
Final Verdict
There are studies that suggest some success after using Tylenol or Ibuprofen for hangovers. Some people note an 
improvement with symptoms such as headaches when they take the medicines in the morning. That said, doctors advise that they be avoided or taken in moderation.
According to Anna Lembke, MD, the director of addiction medicine at Stanford University School of Medicine, combining alcohol with other drugs can induce drug-drug interactions. It can also have severe side effects on your body.
In conclusion, practice caution when using Tylenol or Ibuprofen for a hangover. Avoid taking too many tablets or going beyond the prescribed dose. If possible, consult your doctor.
Get Hangover Help
If you experience hangover symptoms in the Key West area, contact the Hangover Hospital. We offer a wide range of fast-acting, proven hangover remedies. Our options also range from IV drips and Vitamin shots to all-natural cures.
- Don’t let your hangover keep you in bed. Call us at 305.912.4911 or reach out to us online, and we will have the solution at your doorstep in no time.