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Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications
Analgesics
We frequently
refer you to OTC analgesics on this site Analgesics help reduce
fever, pain, and inflammation. We may refer you to different
types of analgesics for different kinds of illnesses or
injuries. The following is a list of brand names for common
analgesics and some things to consider before you take them.
When in doubt, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
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Aspirin
– (Bayer,
St. Joseph, Anacin, Bufferin)
Aspirin has a blood thinning effect that lasts longer than
that of other analgesics. If you drink more than 3 alcoholic
beverages a day, consult your healthcare provider before
taking an aspirin-containing product, because there is a
risk of stomach bleeding. Products containing aspirin
shouldn’t be taken by those younger than 18 for symptoms
related to viral infections (and for 2 weeks after recovery)
due to the risk for Reyes Syndrome which can be fatal.
-
Ibuprofen
– (Advil,
Motrin)
Ibuprofen also has a blood thinning effect, but much less so
than aspirin.
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Naproxen Sodium
– (Aleve)
Naproxen also has a blood thinning effect, but much less so
than aspirin.
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Acetaminophen
- (Tylenol)
Acetaminophen is generally easier on the stomach than
analgesics with aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen and is the
preferred analgesic if you have gastrointestinal problems.
It’s also well suited for those who have bleeding problems
or stomach ulcers, because it doesn’t have the same blood
thinning effect as other analgesics.
Choosing a Brand
Wherever we refer
to an OTC medication , we give the general descriptive name.
We’ve also created the a table which you may find helpful. Your
pharmacist can give you more examples, including generic
equivalents that may cost less.
Drug Interactions:
Many “alternative” treatments have beneficial effects, but any
substance taken by mouth, including herbs, vitamins, and Chinese
medicines, should be treated with respect. Alternative
medications or herbs may have potentially harmful side effects,
reach toxic levels if taken in excess, or interact in a harmful
way with other alternative or traditional medications. To
prevent potentially dangerous interactions that may occur when
you take more than one medication, tell your pharmacist or
healthcare provider about any alternative medicines, herbs,
OTCs, or prescription medications you’re already taking before
trying any new traditional or alternative medicine.
Label Reading:
Many OTC drugs have the potential to cause harmful effects and
interactions, and people with certain health conditions
shouldn’t take some OTCs. Read labels and package instructions
thoroughly. Use products only in the amount and frequency noted
in the instructions unless a healthcare provider instructs you
to do otherwise. Check expiration dates before purchasing OTCs,
and store them as directed.
Single Versus Combination Ingredient
Medications:
It’s more prudent to use single-ingredient OTC medications
(those containing only an analgesic, decongestant, or
antihistamine) versus those that contain more than one
medication.
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