1. Acetaminophen (Tylenol)

• Use: Reduces fever and relieves mild to moderate pain.
• Description: A non-prescription analgesic and antipyretic, commonly used for reducing fever in children and adults. It’s considered gentler on the stomach compared to NSAIDs and is suitable for individuals with certain gastrointestinal issues.
• Forms: Available as tablets, capsules, liquid suspensions, and suppositories.
• Notes: Safe for most people but can cause liver damage if taken in excessive amounts.

2. Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)

• Use: Reduces fever, pain, and inflammation.
• Description: A non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works by inhibiting enzymes that cause inflammation. Often used for fever associated with infections or pain from conditions like arthritis.
• Forms: Available in tablets, chewables, liquid, and topical forms.
• Notes: Can irritate the stomach lining, so it’s advised to take it with food.

3. Aspirin

• Use: Reduces fever, pain, and inflammation.
• Description: Another NSAID, primarily used for pain relief and inflammation reduction. It is less commonly used for fever in children due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome.
• Forms: Tablets, chewables, and enteric-coated forms.
• Notes: Not recommended for children under 18 with viral infections.

4. Naproxen (Aleve)

• Use: Reduces fever, pain, and inflammation.
• Description: Another NSAID similar to ibuprofen, but longer-lasting. It is effective for fever relief and is often used for more severe pain and inflammation.
• Forms: Tablets, gel caps, and liquids.
• Notes: Like other NSAIDs, it can cause stomach irritation, so it’s best taken with food.

5. Combination Cold & Flu Medications

• Use: Symptomatic relief of fever, congestion, and pain.
• Description: Many over-the-counter cold and flu medications (such as DayQuil, Theraflu, or Sudafed) contain fever reducers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen along with decongestants, cough suppressants, and antihistamines.
• Forms: Tablets, capsules, powders, and liquids.
• Notes: Be cautious not to take multiple medications containing acetaminophen to avoid accidental overdose.

Each of these products works differently, so selecting the right one depends on the individual’s age, health condition, and specific symptoms. Always follow dosing instructions carefully to avoid side effects.