Medicines & Treatments

Yes - paracetamol and ibuprofen are different types of painkiller, so adults can safely take them at the same time or space them out, as long as you stick to the recommended dose of each. Do not take other products that also contain paracetamol or ibuprofen at the same time, and check with a pharmacist if you take other medicines or have a health condition. For children, get advice first, as they should not usually take both together.

For adults, paracetamol is usually one or two 500mg tablets up to four times a day, with at least four hours between doses and no more than eight tablets (4g) in 24 hours; ibuprofen is typically 200 to 400mg up to three times a day with food. Always follow the specific pack, and never exceed the stated dose.

Staggering means taking one painkiller, then the other a few hours later, so you have more continuous relief without doubling up - for example paracetamol, then ibuprofen a couple of hours later, keeping each within its own dosing schedule. Note down what you take and when, and do not exceed either medicine's daily maximum.