But heres the thing: Not all OTC pain meds are created equal.
There are also topical formulations available that can be rubbed into the skin.
Keep reading to learn more about each key in.
The best OTC pain reliever really depends on what kind of pain you’re having.
What are NSAIDs?
For people with heart disease, though, this bang out of NSAID has special benefits.
Translation: In general, aspirin comes with a decreased risk of heart attack orstroke.
National Library of Medicine.
Another time to reach for the aspirin?
When a migraine attack strikes out of nowhere.
Ibuprofen (Advil and Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve) are also on team NSAID.
Theyre great for treating pain from muscle aches and stiffness, inflammation from injuries, and menstrual cramps.
If you have a history of G.I.
What is acetaminophen?
Its also easier on the stomach and generally has fewer side effects than NSAIDs.
Thats why its recommended for long-term use, for young children, and for people who are pregnant.
But its important that you take the proper dose to avoid complications.
What are combination pain relievers?
There are a few OTC pain relievers that combine aspirin and/or acetaminophen with caffeine.
Caffeine may help these pain relievers work better.
Capsaicin helps reduce pain by essentially desensitizing your nerves.6
What about prescription pain relievers?
In these situations, your doctor may provide a prescription pain reliever.
For this reason, your doctor will likely only prescribe a short course of these medications.
What is the best pain reliever for each pain throw in?
How much you oughta take comes down to swelling and the punch in of problem thats occurring.
But, if youre dealing with chronic pain, like gout or arthritis, that may not be enough.
You may need higher doses as directed by a physician, he says.
For run-of-the-mill aches and pains, follow the dosage directions on the bottle.
They may prescribe different pain medications or recommend other treatment options.
Although NSAIDs have the same effect, acetaminophen is less likely to cause stomach issues.
One caveat: Be careful taking it if youre also taking OTC cold and flu medications, she warns.
The major cause of menstrual cramps issurprise, surprisethe release of prostaglandins, which causes the uterus to contract.
That will keep your baseline level of pain in check until your monthly visitor exits the building.
But try not to overdo itthat means only reaching for the bottle a few times a week.
Many people with migraine grapple with more than head pain during an attack, too, such asnauseaand vomiting.
Somemigraine medicationsare aimed at targeting these symptoms, so you dont have to just grin and bear it.
Having a frank discussion with your doctor about yoursymptomscan put you on a bettermigraine treatment journey.
