Several options are available for over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers. Dr. Jacob Lonsdale, a non-operative pediatric orthopedist at Marshfield Clinic Health system, helps break them down, while reminding you to always talk to your provider before taking a new medication.
OTC pain reliever basics
Acetaminophen is commonly used for:
- Headaches
- Menstrual cramps
- Minor aches and pains
- Fever
An example brand of acetaminophen is Tylenol®. This pain reliever does not reduce inflammation or swelling caused by an injury. It also usually does not cause upset stomach like some other OTC pain relievers.
“Many other OTC medications, like those for cold or flu, contain acetaminophen,” Dr. Lonsdale said. “Read labels carefully so you do not take more of the medicine than recommended.”
Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) mostly used for:
- Pain management
- Inflammation and swelling
- Fever
- Menstrual cramps
Ibuprofen is marketed under brand names like Advil® and Motrin®. It may cause an upset stomach if not used at the correct dosage. Take ibuprofen on a full stomach or with a glass of milk, to reduce that likelihood.
Use caution. Excessive dosing can lead to long-term effects of stomach bleeding, increased blood pressure, fluid retention and reduced kidney function.
Naproxen sodium is used for:
- Pain
- Inflammation and swelling
- Joint stiffness caused by arthritis, bursitis or gout and similar conditions
- Fever
Naproxen sodium is marketed under the brand name Aleve®.
“This is a longer-lasting medication than acetaminophen or ibuprofen, so it should be taken less frequently, reducing risk for upset stomach,” Dr. Lonsdale said.
Use caution. Because of possible allergic reaction, naproxen sodium should not be given to children under age 12 without physician approval.
Yet another pain relief option is aspirin. Unless specifically directed by your provider, those under age 20 should not take aspirin. At this age, aspirin increases risk of Reye’s syndrome, a serious disease that can cause drowsiness, confusion, seizures, coma, and in severe cases, death.
Aspirin is a NSAID and should not be taken with similar medications like ibuprofen and naproxen.
There are other options
In many cases, providers recommend people first use ice, rest, compression and gentle physical therapy for injuries. Pain relievers can follow these treatments, if needed. You might also talk to your provider or trainer about topical products.
Research is also growing for some natural products like curcumin and resveratrol.
Curcumin is found in turmeric spice and is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. One study found its anti-inflammatory effects appear to be comparable to steroidal drugs and NSAIDS.
Resveratrol is found in grapes, wine, nuts and berries. Its list of potential health benefits is long, and includes anti-inflammatory antioxidant and anti-cancer properties. However, resveratrol doesn’t dissolve into water very well and has low bioavailability. That means the fraction of an administered dose that ultimately impacts one’s body is lower than desired.
Ask questions, be mindful
“It’s simple to compare which OTC medications can do what. It’s not simple to list possible side effects. How your body reacts to any medication has a lot to do with your health, underlying medical conditions and regular medications or prescriptions,” Dr. Lonsdale said.
Always carefully read medication labels. Pay close attention to warnings, the “ask a doctor before use if” section and directions. Finally, ask your provider or trainer about other options to find the best fit for you.
Related Shine365 articles
Top 5 ways to relieve pain without over-the-counter pain medications
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Relief from sciatica is possible, even during pregnancy
This is really great information. Thank you.
Now, to remember it all . . . It would be very nice if the summary could be printed out – to be kept in my medicine cabinet, say.
Hi Donna, We have created a printable version, which can be found here: https://shine365.marshfieldclinic.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/30966-001.pdf -Thanks, Jordan
Get more shine registration page gets in the way of reading the information. This is very frustrating
Hi, Barb. Thank you for that feedback. You can "X out" of the sign up form by using the X in the top right corner of the pop up.
I will share your comments with our team. Thank you for reading Shine365. -Kirstie
Helpful info. Thanks.
Very informative. I have arthritic knees & figures. I take Diclofenac which helps but my Dr does not want me taking it daily. ibuprofen helps but he says that has some of the same negatives as the Diclofenac. Would Naproxen be a better option? Thank you
Hi, Jeff. We cannot provide individualized medical advice on this forum. I suggest asking your doctor more about your medication options.
Thank you for reading Shine365. -Kirstie
Sciatica pain what to do
Hi, Richard. You may find these Shine365 articles beneficial in learning how to help sciatica:
https://shine365.marshfieldclinic.org/bone-joint/relief-from-sciatica-is-possible/
https://shine365.marshfieldclinic.org/wellness/dry-needling/
Thank you for reading Shine365. -Kirstie
so my doctor wants me to take Tylenol like forever for arthritis's…500 mg 3 times a day …because of my high blood pressure…I don't think it is a good idea heard to much bad press on being on this for long term
Hi, Valerie.
We cannot provide individualized medical advice on this forum. Your doctor knows best regarding your medical history and current conditions. We suggest discussing your concerns and questions with your provider.
For more information on medication safety, read these Shine365 articles:
https://shine365.marshfieldclinic.org/wellness/7-questions-prescription-drugs/
https://shine365.marshfieldclinic.org/wellness/4-tips-for-rx-intelligence/
https://shine365.marshfieldclinic.org/wellness/taking-medications/
-Kirstie