Or is paracetamol better?

Paracetamol belongs to the group of non-acidic analgesics and is chemically classified in the class of aniline derivatives. According to guidelines, paracetamol is the first choice for the drug treatment of pain during pregnancy and lactation. Guidelines are regularly updated recommendations for the treatment of diseases by specialist groups.

So if pain occurs during these periods, paracetamol should be taken rather than ibuprofen. It should be noted, however, that this only applies if pain is to be treated. If ibuprofen is taken because of inflammation, it is not possible to switch to paracetamol, because paracetamol does not have an anti-inflammatory effect.

The exact mechanism of action of paracetamol is not yet known. However, it is very well tolerated and has very few side effects. The most common one is an overdose.

Therefore, the dosage information must never be exceeded on its own. If the pain is very severe, the treating doctor should be consulted before taking more paracetamol. An important contraindication to paracetamol is liver failure.

Adults should not take more than 4 grams daily and no more than 500-1000 mg per single dose. Although paracetamol does not help with inflammation, it has an antipyretic effect, i.e. it reduces fever. It is also first choice for babies and children.

What other alternatives are there?

Unfortunately, there are very few drug alternatives for pain that occurs during pregnancy and lactation. From the class of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, no other pain medication should be taken except Ibuprofen. Also other painkillers such as opioids should not be taken during pregnancy. Only ibuprofen is of limited use, only paracetamol is recommended. The only alternatives are household remedies, such as a cold rag on the forehead, rest, sleep and darkness.

Ibuprofen for headaches during lactation

Ibuprofen is a versatile pain reliever. It therefore also relieves most common types of headache. It can be taken during the first two trimesters of pregnancy when there are no contraindications.

It should not be taken in the last third. Ibuprofen can be taken for headaches during the breastfeeding period. The dosage depends on the severity of the headache.

However, the maximum daily dose for adults of 1200 mg ibuprofen should not be exceeded. It is recommended that this dose be divided into three to four single doses. If side effects occur, a doctor must be consulted immediately and no further tablets should be taken.