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| Attribute | Aspirin | Paracetamol |
|---|---|---|
| Simple | Painkiller and blood thinner. | Everyday pain and fever medicine. |
| Drug class | NSAID and antiplatelet agent (acetylsalicylic acid). | Analgesic and antipyretic. Also known as acetaminophen. |
| Prescription | OTC | OTC |
| Uses | Pain, Fever, Heart attack prevention, Stroke prevention | Headache, Fever, Mild pain, Post-vaccine soreness |
| Forms | Tablet, Chewable tablet, Enteric-coated tablet | Tablet, Capsule, Syrup, Suppository, Injection |
| Adult dosage | 300–600 mg every 4–6 hours for pain; 75–100 mg daily for heart protection. | 500–1000 mg every 4–6 hours (max 4 g/day). |
| Pregnancy | Avoid in 3rd trimester | Generally safe |
| Common side effects | Stomach upset, Heartburn | Rare when taken as directed |