With COVID-19 and flu season coming soon, a question many may have is what medications will reduce fever. Below is a short list of over-the-counter medications for reducing fever:

Acetaminophen (also known as paracetamol): Brand name is Tylenol

Aspirin (also known as acetylsalicylic acid): many brands include this chemical. Bayer is a major provider of aspirin. 

Some forms of Excedrin contain both aspirin and acetaminophen.

Ibuprofen: Brand names include Motrin and Advil.

Naproxen (also known as naprosyn): Brand name is Aleve.

Aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen are all called NSAIDs, meaning non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. These medications also reduce inflammation by inhibiting enzymes involved in producing prostaglandins. The same enzymes that make prostaglandins are also involved in making molecules that promote blood clotting. So, these drugs also impair blood clotting. It it through reduced prostaglandin production that these medicines reduce fever and pain and swelling.

Acetaminophen is not an NSAID. It is a fever and pain reducing medication, but it does not reduce inflammation. Acetominophen is metabolized into a molecule that acts in the brain to reduce fever and pain. In people who take blood thinning medication, acetaminophen is a safer fever reducer than any of the NSAIDs.

Many allergy, cold, and flu medicines and migraine medicines include an NSAID or acetaminophen. Read all labels carefully to ensure that you are not taking more than the recommended dose.

Check with your doctor if you are not sure what is appropriate for you.

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