When the onset of a headache or fever occurs, the immediate inclination for many is to turn to common over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). These medications, when used as directed, serve as a safe and effective means for alleviating pain. However, the reality of their use often strays from these guidelines.
Trisha Pasricha, a physician and Harvard Medical School instructor, highlights that people sometimes misuse these medications, either by consuming excessive amounts too quickly, misdiagnosing their ailments, or inadvertently mixing multiple pain relievers. A 2018 study found that 15% of surveyed individuals exceeded recommended NSAID dosages, often unaware that they were consuming the same type of medication.
This misuse can lead to adverse effects ranging from minor symptoms like bloating and nausea to severe complications such as heart attack and stroke. To mitigate these risks, health experts advise familiarizing oneself with the painkillers in one’s medicine cabinet. Below are insights from medical professionals about these drugs.
1. Acetaminophen is often preferable for fevers. University of California San Francisco clinical pharmacist Candy Tsourounis notes that acetaminophen, commonly known as Tylenol, helps reduce fever by increasing the body’s pain threshold and regulating temperature. It is generally gentler on the body compared to NSAIDs.
2. For pain relief, NSAIDs tend to be more effective than acetaminophen. Tsourounis explains that NSAIDs are particularly beneficial for inflammatory pain such as muscle aches. While acetaminophen acts on the central nervous system, NSAIDs like aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen work throughout the body to alleviate inflammation, pain, and fever.
3. Overconsumption of acetaminophen can cause liver damage. It is crucial to adhere to a maximum of 3,000 milligrams per day and avoid alcohol, which strains the liver, according to Tsourounis.
4. NSAIDs pose risks to the digestive and cardiovascular systems. Pasricha warns of potential side effects like stomach pain and heartburn, and more severe issues such as ulcers or kidney damage from prolonged use. Non-aspirin NSAIDs can also raise blood pressure.
5. Consult a pharmacist if uncertain about medication choices. Blamoh Twegbe, a pharmacy manager, encourages patients to seek guidance from pharmacists to make informed decisions about pain management.
6. NSAIDs have limitations in pain management. Pasricha advises against exceeding recommended dosages or combining NSAIDs, as these practices increase side effects without enhancing pain relief.
7. Consult a healthcare provider if relying on the same OTC medication repeatedly. Persistent use of drugs like naproxen for recurring pain may indicate an underlying issue, suggests Pasricha.
8. Be cautious of combining OTC medications. Twegbe cautions that many cold and flu remedies contain acetaminophen or NSAIDs, necessitating careful label reading to avoid unintentional overmedication.
9. Alternate between acetaminophen and NSAIDs for effective pain relief. Twegbe recommends this strategy for managing severe pain while minimizing side effects.
10. Consider non-pill options for pain relief. Pasricha advises exploring topical treatments and non-medication methods like heating pads or water exercises to potentially manage pain more effectively than pills alone.
The digital story was edited by Malaka Gharib. The visual editor is Beck Harlan. We’d love to hear from you. Leave us a voicemail at 202-216-9823, or email us at LifeKit@npr.org.
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