When taken as directed, most are effective and safe for pain relief. 

You may find it difficult to decide which OTC pain medication you should take for your different aches and discomforts. You can find a wide variety of pain relievers at your local pharmacy. It depends on your pain and health. 

When taken as prescribed and for short periods, most non prescription pain medications are effective in reducing pain. However, caution is still advised. 

Read the label and ask your doctor about any concerns you may have regarding dosage, safety, or interactions with other medications. 

If your pain reliever doesn't work, you should also contact your doctor. Your doctor can examine you for any underlying conditions that could be causing symptoms. 

What are OTC pain relief products? 

Acetaminophen (NSAIDs) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (acetaminophen) are the two most common types of OTC pain relievers. Both work in different ways on the body. 

Acetaminophen stops pain signals in the brain. Aspirin, Ibuprofen, and Naproxen are NSAIDs that reduce the amount of chemicals responsible for inflammation. Ace

Acetaminophen is especially effective in treating headaches and fever. 

Dr. Miller recommends that "acetaminophen" is the first OTC pain reliever he uses for minor ailments. 

It is safe to take and less likely than NSAIDs to cause stomach irritation. It is safe for pregnant women, infants, and children. 

Follow the instructions as you would with any other medication, and do not exceed the daily maximum. Take care not to overdose. Many cough and cold medications, such as NyQuil or TheraFlu, contain acetaminophen. Too much acetaminophen may permanently damage your liver. 

Aspirin is an old pain reliever that has been used for centuries to reduce swelling, pain, and fever. Always follow the instructions. 

Aspirin should not be taken by everyone. Aspirin can cause nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain. Doctors recommend alternative pain relievers that are more effective. 

Aspirin shouldn't be given to kids and teens because it is linked to an increase in Reye syndrome, which is a serious but rare condition that causes swelling of the brain and liver. 

Dr. Miller says that aspirin should not be administered to children or adolescents for viral infections such as chicken pox, flu-like symptoms, and other viral diseases due to the possibility of Reye syndrome. 

Aspirin is especially beneficial for those with heart disease. Aspirin is widely used to prevent and manage stroke and heart disease in people at high risk. 

Aspirin thins platelets, the cells that cause blood clots. This can lead to heart attacks and strokes. Clotting can block the arteries that supply the brain and heart. Other NSAIDs should not be used by people with heart disease, high blood pressure, or other risk d pressure, or ot

Ibuprofen, also known as Advil or Motrin, may be more effective in treating certain symptoms and conditions, depending on their severity. 

Dr. Miller explains that he often prescribed ibuprofen to treat menstrual cramps, sore muscles, and other aches. 

He says that ibuprofen has a less irritant stomach than aspirin and a less blood-thinning action if you are suffering from a condition where platelet loss is a concern. It's important to remember that some people have expressed concern about ibuprofen causing kidney damage when not taken correctly. 

Naproxen: The most potent anti-inflammatory pain reliever without a prescription is Naproxen (Aleve). It is particularly effective for sprains as well as sunburns, arthritis, and other conditions. 

Naproxen is more effective than other pain relievers that are not prescribed. The tablets can last up to eight to twelve hours, as opposed to four to eight. During the day, fewer tablets are needed. 

Naproxen should not be used by people older than 65. The side effects of Naproxen are more common in older adults, including ulcers and bleeding.