OTC Pain Relievers: Which One Is Right for You?

Over-the-counter pain medications can help to alleviate mild to moderate discomfort from a variety of ailments and aches. So, how do you know which one to reach for when symptoms arise?

Over-the-counter medication includes drugs that do not require a prescription from a medical professional. They can take many forms, from liquids to pills to creams, and when it comes to treating pain, they are all recognized for having qualities that best serve specific conditions or maladies.

Here is a look at some of the most common pain medications, their benefits, and the best ways to utilize them.

What Are the Various Types of Pain Medications?

• Aspirin: Generally used to lower the risk of heart attack or stroke, aspirin was once considered the go-to for many other ailments, such as minor pain and fever. However, it has since been discovered that administering aspirin to children and teenagers could lead to a rare but serious condition known as Reyes syndrome, in which fat builds up on the brain, liver, and other organs. Among its other benefits, it has also been known to treat rheumatic fever and Kawasaki disease, as well as assist in lowering the risk of blood clots. Although those who use aspirin on a regular basis should not take ibuprofen simultaneously to treat other problems, such as fever, as the combination can be harsh on the stomach.
• Acetaminophen: Best known by the brand name Tylenol, acetaminophen is used to treat pain related to headaches, muscle aches, arthritis, and menstrual cramps. It is also known as a good fever reducer. Since too much acetaminophen can cause liver damage, it is important to be mindful of the proper dosage and to never administer it to children under 2 years old. It is also important to note that certain nasal decongestants and antihistamines also contain acetaminophen, so medications such as Nyquil and Percocet should not be mixed with acetaminophen.
• Ibuprofen: Common names such as Advil and Motrin refer to this classification of drugs known as Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) that are ideal for treating aches and pains where inflammation is a factor. However, prolonged use of ibuprofen may cause a heart attack or stroke in some populations, so it is important to know if you fall into one of the at-risk categories, which include seniors and smokers as well as those with poor health or who drink large amounts of alcohol while taking ibuprofen.
• Naproxen: Also under the NSAID umbrella, naproxen is sold in brand names such as Aleve and is used to treat inflammation related to arthritis, tendonitis, bursitis, gout, and menstrual cramps. The slow-release nature of these tablets makes them ideal for treating long-term or chronic conditions because they are slower to alleviate aches and pains. Like ibuprofen, however, naproxen should not be used by individuals in poor health, those who drink or smoke, or those who could experience a heart attack or stroke if it is taken long term or in high doses. It may also cause stomach or intestinal bleeding, which could be fatal if it is severe enough or left untreated.

What if I Am Having Trouble Deciding Which One to Use?

Aches and pains come and go, and no one says you have to live with them. However, knowing which over-the-counter medication is best suited for your particular problem and how to use it correctly could save even more pain in the long run.

Let a Kent Island Pharmacist at Chesapeake Rx Help You Find the Right Medication to Treat Your Symptoms

If you are not sure which over-the-counter medication to select, talk to the knowledgeable Kent Island pharmacist at Chesapeake Rx. Call 443-249-3134 or contact us online to schedule a consultation. Located in Stevensville, Maryland, we proudly serve patients in Chester and all located on Kent Island.