Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers are medicines that you can buy without a prescription from your doctor. Two main types of OTC pain relievers are available. One type is acetaminophen (brand name: Tylenol). The second type is nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (also called NSAIDs). NSAIDs include the following:
Some products contain both acetaminophen and aspirin (brand names: Excedrin Extra Strength, Excedrin Migraine, Vanquish).
Acetaminophen seems to relieve pain and reduce fever by working on the parts of the brain that receive pain messages and control the body’s temperature.
NSAIDs relieve pain and fever by reducing the level of hormone-like substances (called prostaglandins) that your body makes. These substances cause the feeling of pain by irritating your nerve endings. They also are part of the system that helps your body control its temperature.
Acetaminophen and NSAIDs relieve pain caused by muscle aches and stiffness, and reduce fever. NSAIDs can also reduce inflammation (redness and swelling).
OTC pain relievers can be helpful in treating many types of pain, such as pain from arthritis, earaches, back pain, and pain after surgery. They can also treat pain from the flu (influenza) or a cold, sinusitis, strep throat or a sore throat. Children who may have the flu or chickenpox should not take aspirin because they are at higher risk to develop a condition called Reye’s Syndrome.
Acetaminophen can be a good choice for relieving headaches and other common aches and pains. It can be used safely by most people on a long-term basis for arthritis and other chronic painful conditions if pain is improved. Make sure you tell your doctor about any OTC medications you take regularly.
Ibuprofen is helpful for menstrual cramps and pain from inflammation (such as muscle sprains). If ibuprofen doesn’t work for you, naproxen and ketoprofen may be options.
