Ontario Paramedic Practice Exam

True or False: Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen should be co-administered?

1. True

2. False

The correct answer is: True

Co-administration of ibuprofen and acetaminophen can be beneficial in certain situations, such as in the management of pain or fever. These medications work through different mechanisms—acetaminophen primarily reduces fever and relieves mild to moderate pain, while ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces inflammation, pain, and fever. By administering both medications together, you can achieve an additive analgesic effect, providing better pain relief than either medication alone. It's important to note, however, that when combining these medications, the dosing guidelines should be carefully followed to avoid potential adverse effects, particularly concerning the total daily dosage. Always consider patient-specific factors, such as their overall health, medical history, and potential for adverse reactions, when deciding on co-administration.