Keep in mind that even though over the counter preparations do not require a prescription you must still inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any such products. Over the counter medicines can still cause side affects and may interact with other medications. They must be taken according to the recommended dosage instructions.
There are many different brands of over the counter pain relievers, which can be divided into three basic types:
Non-steroid anti-inflammatory
Better known as “NSAIDS” or analgesics, these preparations include naproxen sodium, ketoprophen, ibuprofen, and aspirin based products. These medications reduce fever and pain, but are also the only type that can reduce inflammation, so they are frequently used in treating the temporary pain of arthritis. Aleve is a popular brand of naproxen sodium and Orudis KT is a popular brand of ketoprophen.
Ibuprofen is used to relieve moderate pain, such as muscle aches, and to reduce swelling, inflammation, and fever. Two popular brands of ibuprofen are Motrin and Advil.
There are many brands of aspirin, such as Bayer and Anacin for example. Aspirin is frequently used for minor aches and is also used as a blood thinner; however, you should not begin an aspirin regimen without your doctor’s advice. Aspirin is also said to lessen the severity of heart attacks if taken when the first symptoms occur.
NSAIDS can be hard on the stomach if taken continuously, and can eventually lead to bleeding and ulcers if used for long periods of time. Those with stomach problems such as ulcers should consult a healthcare professional before use. Those who utilize prescription blood thinning medications should not take NSAIDS unless under the advice and supervision of a medical professional.
Certain NSAIDS have come under scrutiny because research indicates that they increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. If you are concerned about this possible risk factor, check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking non-steroid anti-inflammatory products.
Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen based products such as Tylenol, are safe to use, if used on a temporary basis, following the recommended dosage. They cause little if any stomach discomfort when used accordingly. Acetaminophen is a good choice for healthy adults in relieving mild to moderate pain as well as reducing fever. It is also a good choice to relieve general aches and pains and fever in children.
Acetaminophen can affect the liver and kidneys if over-used or taken in high dosages and should not be taken by those with kidney or liver problems or those who drink more than one alcoholic beverage daily.
Combination Medicines
Certain pain relievers like Excedrin, combine equal amounts of acetaminophen and aspirin together. Excedrin also adds a bit of caffeine to help the medicine work quickly.
Such medications work well on headaches and fever. Some are available in specialized formulas for specific ailments such as migraine or tension headaches.
Possible side effects vary, and can include all of those listed for aspirin and acetaminophen. Those who are aspirin or caffeine sensitive and those who should not take acetaminophen, should not take this type of product unless advised by a healthcare professional.
This product and any other product that contains aspirin should not be given to children under twelve when they have a fever, as there is a risk of developing Reye’s syndrome.
Most of these medications are available in children’s strength formulas. Always use according to dosage instructions or special instructions offered by your healthcare provider.
Over the counter preparations are convenient and cost effective methods of relieving pain, but they must be used carefully. When choosing a pain medication, read the labels, talk to your doctor or pharmacist, or look the medication up online. Many companies provide websites that offer more detailed information than what you will find on the package label.
