Many older adults may have chronic pain but choosing a pain medicine to take may not be easy. Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers are medications that do not need a prescription from your doctor for purchase.
According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, there are two main types of OTC pain medications: one type is acetaminophen (brand name: Tylenol); the second type is nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). NSAIDs include the following:
- Aspirin (two brand names: Bayer, St. Joseph)
- Ibuprofen (two brand names: Advil, Motrin)
- Ketoprofen (one brand name: Orudis KT)
- Naproxen (one brand name: Aleve)
If you are healthy, side effects from OTC pain medications are not common when only used occasionally. If you use OTC pain medications regularly, have health problems or take other medications, prescription or non-prescription, talk to your health provider before using them.
Sometimes taking more than one medication at same time can cause unintended interactions and change the way your body processes them. Always read the medication labels for possible side effects or interactions with other medications you take – pay special attention to the “Warning” and “Active Ingredient” sections of the label. Always read and follow the directions on the label. Be sure you understand the label information before taking the medication. If you have any questions, ask your health provider or pharmacist. For more information on safely managing your medications, visit the National Institute on Aging's Safe Use of Medicines.
Over-the-counter pain medications can be useful and effective. Even though they are considered safe enough to be taken without a prescription, they are real medications. It is important to discuss their use with a health provider, especially if you are taking other medications. For more information, visit the American Academy of Family Physicians.
