Minor headaches and muscle aches are common ailments, with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)<\/a> like Aleve and ibuprofen being some of the most commonly used medications for pain relief. Although Aleve<\/a> and ibuprofen<\/a> work similarly to help relievgase pain, they have some important differences. Continue reading to learn more about the similarities and differences between Aleve and ibuprofen, and which one may be the better option.<\/p>\n Aleve and ibuprofen differ in several ways. Depending on different factors, one medication may be preferred over the other. It\u2019s always best to consult a healthcare provider when choosing the right treatment.<\/p>\n Aleve is a brand-name drug that is also available in a generic form. Ibuprofen is a generic drug that is known by various brand names, including Advil<\/a> and Motrin<\/a>. Generic drugs are usually cheaper than their brand-name versions.<\/p>\n Naproxen comes in two forms: naproxen base and naproxen sodium. Aleve contains the active ingredient naproxen sodium, the salt form of naproxen, which is more rapidly absorbed than naproxen base. Ibuprofen is the active ingredient in Advil, Motrin, and other brand-name pain relievers. Although they work similarly, naproxen and ibuprofen have different chemical structures.<\/p>\n The recommended dosage of Aleve<\/a> is 220 mg every eight to 12 hours, while the recommended dosage of ibuprofen<\/a> is 200 to 400 mg every four to six hours (not to exceed 1,200 mg in 24 hours). Keep in mind that these are the recommended dosages for the OTC strengths of these medications. Naproxen and ibuprofen are also available in higher prescription strengths with higher allowable dosages. In addition, Aleve and ibuprofen come in different dosage forms. Aleve is available as a tablet or liquid-filled capsule, while ibuprofen can be found as a tablet, capsule, chewable tablet, and oral liquid.<\/p>\n Aleve is approved to treat fever and minor aches or pains in adults and children aged 12 years and older, although some healthcare providers may guide treatment in younger children. Ibuprofen is approved to treat the same ailments in adults, children, and infants as young as six months old. For young children<\/a>, ibuprofen is a safer option than Aleve.<\/p>\n Aleve<\/a> is a long-acting drug that can relieve pain for up to 12 hours, while ibuprofen<\/a> is generally short-acting, with effects that last for four to six hours. For many people with short-term pain, such as a headache, ibuprofen may be a better option, while those with arthritis or a persistent backache may find Aleve more useful.<\/p>\n Both medications generally start working within 30 minutes to an hour. However, ibuprofen may have a slight edge over naproxen sodium, with some people reporting it starts working in as little as 20 minutes.<\/p>\nWhat are the main differences between Aleve and ibuprofen?<\/h2>\n
One is a brand-name drug, and the other is a generic<\/h3>\n
They contain different active ingredients<\/h3>\n
They have different recommended dosages<\/h3>\n
The age limits for each drug differ<\/h3>\n
Aleve lasts longer<\/h3>\n
Speed of onset<\/h3>\n