Ibuprofen is safer than aspirin.

I can't remember the explanation right off hand, but I have discussed this same issue in length with my husband who is a pharmacist. What I seem to recall is that aspirin binds to cells in the blood stream and stays in the body longer. It either kills or weakens blood cells and the body has to replenish them which takes quite awhile (months) and is therefore not as safe as aspirin.

I could be remembering this completely wrong so don't take my reasons for it as science. I so remember for a fact that we are better off taking ibuprofen - (oh, and take it with food)

We had this discussion late at night when I was sick and I was half-way listening. I felt like crap and just wanted a simple answer like "no, honey, don't take aspirin, it isn't as safe". A simple explanation is NOT something you get from a pharmacist I actually respect that and am now wishing I would have listened more closely so I would have a better answer.

Oh, and yes, both are anti-inflammatories and both thin the blood.

Sleep well and get better soon!!