Choosing a safe OTC pain reliever
Everyone has them, often nearby, in a purse, medicine cabinet or drawer. We reach for them when we have a pounding headache, an aching joint or muscle pain. But, few people understand the risks.
Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers are medicines that can help relieve pain or lower a fever. OTC means you can buy them at a store without a prescription from your doctor. They are helpful in treating many types of pain, including earaches, back pain and pain after surgery. They can also treat pain from the flu or a sore throat. Some can help with swelling or inflammation.
Types of OTC pain relievers
There are two main types of OTC pain relievers: acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
1.
Acetaminophen
Tylenol® and other generics are for mild to moderate pain, including headaches and osteoarthritis. It does not reduce inflammation the way other pain medicines do. But, it has fewer side effects and is gentler on the stomach. This makes it safer for long-term use and for children when taken at an appropriate dosage.
2.
NSAIDs
Aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen are for mild to moderate pain, such as headaches, migraines and muscle aches. NSAIDs can increase the risk of stomach ulcers and bleeding, especially when used in high doses. It can also elevate cardiovascular risk for people with and without existing cardiovascular disease. Only take the lowest dose for the shortest period of time indicated on the label and not for longer than 10 days for pain without talking to your doctor.
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When OTC pain relievers can’t stop your pain or you find yourself needing pain relief often, it’s time to see a doctor. Find an in-network provider near you with myWellmark.
Considerations for OTC pain relievers
Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen is helpful for:
- Reducing fever.
- Relieving headaches.
- Easing common aches and pains.
- Treating arthritis and other chronic painful conditions.
Do not take acetaminophen if you:
- Have severe kidney or liver disease.
- Have three or more drinks that contain alcohol daily.
- Are already taking another product containing acetaminophen.
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding. If needed, acetaminophen at the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration of time is recommended for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
NSAIDs are helpful for:
- Reducing fever.
- Relieving menstrual cramps.
- Easing pain caused by headaches, muscle aches and stiffness.
- Reducing inflammation (swelling).
- Decreasing pain from inflammation (such as muscle sprains).
Talk with your doctor before you take an NSAID, especially aspirin, if you:
- Are allergic to aspirin or other pain relievers.
- Have three or more drinks that contain alcohol every day.
- Have bleeding in the stomach or intestines or have peptic (stomach) ulcers.
- Have liver or kidney disease.
- Have heart disease.
- Take blood-thinning medicine or have a bleeding disorder.
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding.
How do I safely take OTC pain relievers?
- Following dosing instructions. Take only the amount recommended on the medicine’s label. Don’t assume that more medicine will work better or quicker. Taking more than the recommended amount can be dangerous.
- Avoid interactions. If you are taking a prescription medicine, ask your doctor if it’s OK to also take an OTC pain reliever.
- Don’t mix pain relievers. Avoid using more than one OTC pain reliever at a time unless your doctor says it’s OK. They may have similar active ingredients.
- Check the active ingredients. Before taking other OTC medicines with your pain reliever, check the label for active ingredients. Many OTC medicines for cold symptoms, allergies and sleep aids may contain acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Always check to be sure you’re not doubling your dose.
If you have any questions about how much medicine to take, call your primary care provider (PCP) or pharmacist.
Questions to ask your doctor about OTC pain relievers
- What kind of OTC pain reliever is the best one to treat my pain or my child’s pain?
- What are the side effects?
- What is the maximum amount I should take a day?
- How long should I take the OTC pain reliever?
- My pain is not going away. Could I need something stronger?
Need help?
BeWell 24/7® is available when you call 844-842-3935
If you need help understanding dosage or instructions for your OTC or prescription pain relievers, call BeWell 24/7. Health professionals are available to help you, around the clock. This free service is exclusive to Wellmark members.
Wellmark supports smart opioid management
OTC pain relievers can be taken without a prescription. In many situations, they're all you need for pain. However, for severe, acute pain after surgery or from an injury, your doctor may prescribe opioids. If you take opioids for pain, you should understand their potential for dependence and addiction. Opioids are very powerful and can be dangerous if misused. Opioid misuse is a leading cause of shortened life expectancy in the United States, and is now considered one of America's foremost health crises.
Balancing risk with access
Wellmark has an opioid medication management program that emphasizes the lowest possible dose of opioids for the shortest possible amount of time. Your physician helps decide whether the benefits outweigh the risk of abuse, addiction or dependence. For patients filling an opioid prescription for the first time, be sure to have a conversation with your pharmacist and follow all instructions when using your prescription.
This program is intended to ensure smaller quantities of opioids are dispensed for short-term pain needs. It is not designed to impact members with chronic pain or those undergoing care for serious illnesses.
Get the details
For more information about using OTC pain meds, and for a more detailed chart about making the right choice, visit Get Relief Responsibly. You can also talk to your pharmacist.