Many anti-inflammatory medications are available over the counter, typically in the pain relief section of the pharmacy. Anti-inflammatories help relieve pain and discomfort due to inflammation. Show Anti-inflammatories are often known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Most people will experience no ill effects from using NSAIDs for minor aches and pains. However, certain people — such as those with high blood pressure — should talk to their doctor before taking an NSAID, as they may not be safe to use in this case. The following is a guide to the three most common over-the-counter (OTC) anti-inflammatories: aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), and naproxen (Naprosyn, Aleve). All OTC anti-inflammatories share some common elements. For example, they all block prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are largely responsible for stimulating the nerve endings and causing pain when an area is inflamed. A person can use OTC anti-inflammatories to treat a variety of conditions and complaints, including:
Aspirin helps treat inflammation and related pain. Some people also take it to prevent heart attacks. People taking any medications for gout, diabetes, a heart condition, or arthritis should talk to their doctor before taking aspirin. Pregnant women, people with heart disease, those taking steroids, and those taking antidepressants should also contact a doctor before taking aspirin. People who are allergic to aspirin may also wish to avoid it. People should always follow the dosage guide on the packaging. Aspirin is available in several different sizes and types. If a person is not sure how much aspirin they should take, they can talk to their healthcare provider. They should discontinue use if they notice any side effects. Below are some tips from the United States National Library of Medicine for taking aspirin:
Parents and caregivers should avoid giving aspirin to children or teenagers. According to older research, aspirin may increase the risk of a child developing Reye’s syndrome. This is a rare but life threatening condition. More recent studies also conclude that although scientists have not confirmed the association, enough evidence suggests that aspirin has a link with Reye’s syndrome. Ibuprofen also comes in different sizes and dosages. Both generic and brand name versions are available at most pharmacies. It is also available in infant and child formulas, typically in a liquid or chewable tablet form. Always follow dosing instructions. Ibuprofen has a black box warning indicating that it can increase the risk of heart attack or stroke. People with high blood pressure or a history of this condition should therefore avoid ibuprofen or use it with caution. Also, a person should talk to their doctor about taking ibuprofen if they have a history of ulcers, heartburn, or other stomach issues. People should also talk to their doctor if they are currently taking any prescription medications, such as diuretics. Those with kidney disease, liver issues, high blood pressure, or heart disease should avoid ibuprofen. Adults and children aged 12 and over can take ibuprofen. Below are some tips from the U.S. National Library of Medicine on how to use ibuprofen:
There are two forms of naproxen: naproxen and naproxen sodium. The main difference is that the body more rapidly absorbs naproxen sodium. Naproxen is available in most pharmacies as both generic and brand name versions. It has several dose sizes and can come in different forms. Naproxen, like ibuprofen, has a black box warning on the label regarding heart attack, stroke, and stomach bleeding. People at risk of any of these events should not take naproxen. A person should follow all instructions on the individual packaging labels. If a person is not sure about the proper dose, they should speak to their doctor before taking it. People should avoid taking naproxen if they:
Those with kidney, liver, or heart disease should also avoid naproxen. It is also important that pregnant women and those who may soon become pregnant talk to their doctor before using naproxen. The U.S. National Library of Medicine provide the following tips for taking naproxen:
Based on 220 mg of naproxen sodium or 200 mg of naproxen, adults and children aged 12 years and over should take:
Like all medications, NSAIDs have the potential to cause mild-to-severe side effects. For example, aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen can all cause minor side effects, including:
If these symptoms persist, a person should talk to a doctor and discontinue use of the medication. People should also watch out for side effects such as:
These symptoms require immediate medical attention. Also, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have recently strengthened an existing black box warning for both ibuprofen and naproxen. The black box warning indicates that both ibuprofen and naproxen can increase the risk of heart attack or stroke in people who take them. The risk may increase the longer someone uses them. For this reason, people at risk of heart attack or stroke should avoid these medications. OTC anti-inflammatories can also cause gastrointestinal issues. These issues include ulcers, inflammation, pain, and perforation of the intestines or stomach. People with a history of stomach issues, including ulcers and heartburn, should therefore talk to their doctor before taking any of these medications. A person should see a doctor if they experience any symptoms of an allergic reaction, any serious side effects, or any worsening side effects from taking any OTC anti-inflammatory. A person should seek emergency medical attention if they experience difficulty breathing or notice any blood in the vomit or stool. If a person is allergic to any NSAID, has other health issues, or is taking prescription medications, they should talk to their doctor before taking any NSAID. NSAIDs are anti-inflammatory medications that are available in lower dosages over the counter. People should use OTC anti-inflammatories with caution, as there is a potential for negative health effects. All NSAIDs have a risk of stomach bleeding, for example, while ibuprofen and naproxen can raise the risk of heart attack and stroke. Most people taking OTC anti-inflammatories will not experience side effects if they use the medications sparingly and always follow the dosing instructions on the packaging. If a person has any doubts about taking NSAIDs, they should talk to their doctor. Which nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs are available over the counter?A few different types of NSAIDs are available over the counter: Aspirin (Bayer, Bufferin, Excedrin) Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB) Naproxen (Aleve)
What is the strongest nonsteroidal antiResearch shows diclofenac is the strongest and most effective non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicine available. 10 Diclofenec is sold under the prescription brand names Cambia, Cataflam, Zipsor, and Zorvolex. It is also available as a topical gel, Voltaren, which is available over the counter.
What's a good over the counter pill for inflammation?Anti-inflammatory medications. Aspirin (Bufferin, Bayer, and Excedrin). Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, Nuprin). Ketoprofen (Actron, Orudis). Naproxen (Aleve). |