People, all over the world rely on over-the-counter drugs for minor problems like headaches, fever, muscle pains, inflammatory conditions, backache, common cold, etc. OTC pain relievers are most extensively used. Following are the most frequent asked questions about OTC pain relievers.
1.What are basically internal analgesics?
Internal analgesics are drugs that are mainly used for relieving pain and reducing fever or inflammation. Internal analgesics can be prescription drugs as well as over-the-counter (OTC) drugs. The main active ingredients in OTC internal analgesics are aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen sodium, acetaminophen and ketoprofen. Some OTC painkillers can also be categorized as NSAIDs ( Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Active ingredients in OTC NSAIDs are aspirin, ibuprofen, ketoprofen and naproxen sodium.
2. How do I know if an OTC pain reliever or fever reducer is right for me?
Before taking any over-the-counter pain reliever, you must always read the OTC drug facts label, indications for use, directions and warnings carefully. If you still have any doubts, it is always advisable to consult your physician or pharmacist before taking the medicine. You should also talk about the medication you are already taking so as to rule out any possible counteraction or side-effect.
3. Where can I get more information about OTC pain relievers?
All the information, tip sheets and brochures regarding safe use of OTC drugs are available at The CHPA Educational Foundation. Information regarding a particular OTC drug can be directly checked with their makers either on their websites or by calling them personally.
4. How much of a product is too much, and how long is too long to take an OTC pain reliever?
Consumers must always follow the instructions stated on the Drugs Facts label carefully. OTC pain relievers are generally not intended for long-term consumption, unless otherwise stated by a physician who knows the patient’s medical history. You must also carefully administer OTC drugs and prescription medicines. Many a times, they both have common active ingredients and therefore should not be taken concurrently, lest there is a risk of overdose.
5. What is acetaminophen used for?
Acetaminophen is the most common active ingredient in many OTC pain relievers and fever reducers as well as prescription drugs. It gives an effective temporary relief from pains like headaches, muscular pains, backache, rheumatoid pain, common cold, toothache, menstrual cramps, etc. Acetaminophen is intended for short-term consumption only and also should not be taken along with other medicines that contain acetaminophen as an active ingredient. If the pain persists for more than a week, it is advisable to see a specialist.
6. What are the guidelines to take Acetaminophen containing OTCs?
Acetaminophen-containing OTCs come with a Drug Facts label clearly stating the active ingredients, purpose, directions and warnings. The label mentions that the consumer must talk to their doctor before taking OTC drugs containing Acetaminophen if they drink more than three alcoholic drinks per day. Label also cautions pregnant and lactating women to consult their doctor before taking Acetaminophen. There is a warning instruction that any acetaminophen-containing drugs may be poisonous and should be kept out of reach of children. It is also clearly stated that overdose of Acetaminophen may cause liver damage and it should also not be taken along with other prescription medicine containing Acetaminophen as an active ingredient. In case you suspect that you have overdosed, contact a healthcare profession immediately. You may also contact poison control at 800.222.12.
7. What are Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and what are they used for?
NSAIDs are very effective internal analgesics or painkillers. The main active ingredients in OTC NSAIDs are aspirin, ibuprofen, ketoprofen and naproxen sodium. As the name suggests, these drugs have anti-inflammatory properties and are used to treat minor muscle aches and inflammation conditions. All analgesics are not NSAIDs. For example, Acetaminophen is an analgesic but it is not an NSAID.
8. Are OTC NSAIDs safe to use?
All OTC NSAIDs are approved by the U.S Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They are completely safe to use as long as the guidelines mentioned in the Drug Facts label are followed carefully.
9. What is the difference between prescription NSAIDs and over-the-counter NSAIDs?
OTC medicines are intended for short-term use only. Prescription pills can however be taken for a long period of time in chronic conditions under the supervision of a physician. OTC drugs also carry an elaborate list of warnings and instructions because they are to be administered by consumers on their own. On the other hand, prescriptions drugs do not carry comprehensive labeling most of the times.
