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Pain
When you're in pain, finding relief fast is top priority.
Finding the right solution to treat your pain, however, may take some time. With so many over-the-counter (OTC) options available, all of which targeting a wide range of pain points, you may find that the process is a bit... painful. With the help of easy-to-read resources, along with our OTC Pain Reliever Assessment, we're simplifying the process by giving you the tools needed to select the pain reliever solution that's right for you.
What Is Pain?
Pain is your body's way of letting you know that something is wrong in the body. Nerves send a signal to the brain when they detect tissue damage and this signal may be described as aching, throbbing, burning, or shooting pain.
There are two main types of pain: acute and chronic. Acute pain is sudden and is caused by a specific injury or illness. It usually goes away once the underlying cause is healed or gone. Chronic pain is ongoing, and can last long after the injury or illness has healed.
Common types of pain include arthritis pain, back pain, joint pain, muscle pain, neck pain, headaches, and toothaches. It is important to know that everybody has a different pain tolerance, so the most effective approach to pain management is one that is tailored to you. Sometimes you can manage pain with rest, alternating use of ice and heat, or taking OTC pain relievers. If your pain lasts longer than ten days, it is important to reach out to your doctor or another healthcare professional.
Oral Pain Relievers
Oral Pain Relievers
Oral OTC pain relievers are medicines you take by mouth to help treat mild to moderate pain. Many of these products can also help reduce a fever and come in a variety of forms, including tablets, capsules, liquids, and syrups. Other types are intended to be inserted into the rectum via a suppository.
There are two basic types of oral OTC medicines that work as pain relievers:
- Acetaminophen (also the name of the active ingredient)
Common products include Tylenol®, FeverAll®, Midol®, Pamprin®, Percogesic®, Excedrin®, Goody’s®, and Vicks®
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which include the following active ingredients:
- Magnesium Salicylate
Common products include DIUREX® and Doan’s®
- Naproxen Sodium
Common products include Aleve®
Safe Use Tips for
Oral Pain Relievers
Always read and follow the Drug Facts label carefully. The label tells you important information about the medicine, including the ingredients, what you are supposed to use it for, how much you should take, and when you should not take the product.
- Talk to a doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional before using more than one pain reliever or fever reducer at the same time. Stop use and contact a healthcare professional if your pain gets worse or lasts more than 10 days.
- If a severe allergic reaction occurs and you experience symptoms such as hives, facial swelling, asthma (wheezing), shock, skin reddening, rash, or blisters, immediately seek medical attention.
- If you take low-dose aspirin for protection against heart attack and stroke, be aware that some NSAIDs, including ibuprofen and naproxen sodium, may interfere.
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor or other healthcare professional before use.
- Talk to your healthcare professional if you have questions or concerns about which OTC pain reliever to take.
If you think you have taken or given too much of a medicine, immediately contact a healthcare professional or Poison Control at 888-222-1222.
Topical Pain Relievers
Topical Pain Relievers
Topical OTC pain relievers are medicines that are applied and absorbed through the skin. Depending on the active ingredient, topical pain relievers are intended to treat a number of different conditions, including inflammation, minor body aches and pains, sunburn and other minor burns, itching, and some skin irritations. They are typically available in the form of sprays, lotions, creams, gels, ointments, patches, and medicated wipes.
Other examples of topical OTC pain relievers:
- Americaine®, Lanacane®
Contains the active ingredient Benzocaine
- Capzasin®, ZOSTRIX®
Contains the active ingredient Capsaicin
- Ivarest®
Contains the active ingredient Diphenhydramine
- Cortaid®, Dermarest®, Itch-X®, Preparation H®, Tucks®
Contains the active ingredient Hydrocortisone
- BENGAY® Deep Heating®, GOLD BOND®, Vicks®, Aleve X™
Contains the active ingredient Menthol
- Flexall®, Satogesic®, THERA-GESIC®
Contains the active ingredient Methyl Salicylate
Safe Use Tips for
Topical Pain Relievers
Always read and follow the Drug Facts label carefully. The label tells you everything you need to know about the medicine, including the ingredients, what you are supposed to use it for, how much you should take, and when you should not take the product.
- Do not apply more or for a longer period of time than what the label recommends unless you are under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
- Only apply to the outer surface of the body. Do not apply topical pain relievers to wounds or damaged skin. Stop using topical medicines if skin irritation develops. Avoid getting the product in your eyes.
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor or other healthcare professional before use.
- Talk to a healthcare professional before using an OTC topical pain reliever containing benzocaine, camphor, diphenhydramine, hydrocortisone, lidocaine, menthol, or pramoxine in a child age 2 and under.
- Talk to a healthcare professional before using an OTC topical pain reliever containing methyl salicylate or trolamine salicylate in a child age 12 and under.
- Talk to your healthcare professional if you have questions or concerns about which OTC pain reliever to take.
If you accidentally swallow a product, immediately contact a healthcare professional or Poison Control at 888-222-1222.
Combination Pain Relievers
Combination Pain Relievers
Oral OTC combination pain relievers are any pain relievers that contain acetaminophen and NSAIDs. People taking combination pain relievers should read the Drug Facts label to understand the risks and side effects associated with each active ingredient.
Safe Use Tips for
Combination Pain Relievers
Always read and follow the Drug Facts label carefully. The label tells you important information about the medicine, including the ingredients, what you are supposed to use it for, how much you should take, and when you should not take the product.
- Talk to a doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional before using more than one pain reliever or fever reducer at the same time.
- Stop use and contact a healthcare professional if your pain gets worse or lasts more than 10 days.
- If a severe allergic reaction occurs and you experience symptoms such as hives, facial swelling, asthma (wheezing), shock, skin reddening, rash, or blisters, immediately seek medical attention.
- If you take low-dose aspirin for protection against heart attack and stroke, be aware that some NSAIDs, including ibuprofen and naproxen sodium, may interfere.
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor or other healthcare professional before use.
- Talk to your healthcare professional if you have questions or concerns about which OTC pain reliever to take.
If you think you have taken or given too much of a medicine, immediately contact a healthcare professional or Poison Control at 888-222-1222.
Joint Pain
Joint Pain
Joint pain is discomfort, aches, or soreness felt in areas such as the knees, shoulders, and hips. It is often caused by inflammation in or around the joint. Injuries to the area generally result in temporary soreness, but prolonged pain can be a symptom of a chronic condition that requires the guidance of a doctor or other healthcare professional.
Joint pain is very common. In fact, one national survey found that about one-third of adults reported having joint pain within the last 30 days. Fortunately, most cases of mild or moderate joint pain respond well to rest and self-care.
Causes and Symptoms of Joint Pain
Joint pain often stems from damage to tendons, tissues, or bones located in and around a joint. This damage may be the result of repetitive motions or poor movement patterns. Joint pain can also result from an injury incurred during exercise or sports, or as the result of a fall. The duration and severity of the pain can vary greatly depending on the specific injury, your age, co-existing health conditions, and lifestyle factors.
Arthritis is one of the most common causes of joint pain, with over 54 million people suffering from some type of arthritis. Arthritis is chronic inflammation of one or multiple joints that tends to worsen with age. If you think you may have arthritis, you should speak with your doctor and discuss treatment options that may be right for you.
Joint pain symptoms include:
- Achiness or stiffness
- Painfulness to the touch or with movement
- Swelling and redness
- Sharp pain when weight is put on the joint
If you experience sudden joint pain after an injury such as a serious fall, you should see a healthcare professional immediately.
Treatments for Joint Pain
Mild to moderate joint pain usually gets better on its own. The most basic way to treat your pain is to rest and avoid movements that strain the joint. But you may want to consider adding more options to your treatment toolkit, including at-home treatments and over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers.
At-Home Treatments and Activities
When experiencing joint pain, there are a few simple steps you can take at home to find relief, including:
- Protection – protect the injured joint with a brace or wrap
- Rest – avoid any activities that cause the injured joint pain
- Ice – apply ice to the injured joint for about 15 minutes, several times a day
- Compression – apply an elastic bandage to the injured joint
- Elevation – elevate the joint above the level of your heart
Light stretching and exercise can also promote healing by increasing blood flow to the area. Strengthening the muscles around the joint can help to stabilize the area and make the joint less likely to be injured in the future.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medicines
OTC pain relievers can provide temporary relief from aches and pains due to muscle aches and minor arthritis pain. When taking OTC pain relievers, it is important to understand that each medicine has potential side effects and interactions with other drugs. Always read the Drug Facts label on the medicine’s bottle or packaging to determine if you have any risk factors related to the medicine’s active ingredients.
OTC medicines can provide safe and effective relief for mild to moderate pain. They aren’t meant to treat chronic pain conditions on a consistent or long-term basis, unless directed by your healthcare professional.
Safe Use Tips for
Skin Protectants
Safe Use Tips for First-Aid Antibiotics
Safe Use Tips for First-Aid Antiseptics
Safe Use Tips for
Joint Pain
Joint pain typically goes away with minimal care, but some cases may require you to see a healthcare professional.
Talk to your doctor or other healthcare professional if you experience:
- A joint deformity, such as a mallet finger or bunion
- Complete inability to use the joint
- Intense pain
- Rapid swelling
If you have questions about which OTC pain reliever to take, talk with a doctor or other healthcare professional about which product is right for you. During your appointment, be sure to mention any health conditions you have and note the dosage of all medicines and dietary supplements that you are currently taking. You can find risk factors for OTC medicines you are using on the Drug Facts label.
A healthcare professional can also recommend additional measures to take if you are not obtaining the desired results from at-home or over-the-counter treatments.
Back Pain
Back pain is one of the most common types of pain, affecting 8 out of 10 people at some point during their lives. Back pain can stem from several problems, including injuries or long-term habits such as poor posture.
While back pain can be frustrating and debilitating, most people with back pain can improve with minimal care. There are some easy things you can do to get back pain relief.
Causes and Symptoms of Back Pain
People often feel back pain after lifting irregularly shaped or heavy objects with improper form or overexerting themselves during exercise. Muscle strains, arthritis, or other structural issues can also cause or contribute to back pain.
Back pain may come on suddenly or gradually over time. The symptoms can range from a dull ache sensation to a sharp pain that extends into the buttocks, hips, or legs. This can lead to a decreased range of motion, making it difficult to stand up straight or move around without pain.
Treatments for Back Pain
In most cases, back pain gets better without a major intervention. The basic way to treat the injury is to rest and avoid movements that twist or strain your back. But you may want to consider adding more options to your treatment toolkit, including over-the-counter (OTC) medicines and at-home treatments.
At-home Treatments
At-home treatment options include core and stability exercises, hot and cold compresses, and flexibility work such as yoga and stretching. Small habit changes like sitting less and improving your posture can also reduce the stress on your back.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medicines
OTC pain relievers can provide temporary relief from aches and pains due to muscle aches and minor arthritis pain. When taking OTC pain relievers, it is important to understand that each medicine has potential side effects and interactions with other drugs. Always read the Drug Facts label on the medicine’s bottle or packaging to determine if you have any risk factors related to the medicine’s active ingredients.
OTC medicines can provide safe and effective relief for mild to moderate pain. They aren’t meant to treat chronic pain conditions on a consistent or long-term basis, unless directed by your healthcare professional.
Safe Use Tips for
Back Pain
Although back pain typically goes away with time and rest, some cases may require you to see a healthcare professional.
Talk to your doctor or other healthcare professional if you experience:
- pain that gets worse or lasts several weeks
- numbness, weakness, or tingling
- changes in bowel or bladder function
If you have questions about which OTC pain reliever to take, talk with your healthcare professional about which product is right for you. During your appointment, be sure to mention any risk factors or conditions you have and note the dosage and frequency for all medicines that you are currently taking.
Neck Pain
Most people will experience minor neck pain or stiffness at some point in their lives. In fact, it is estimated that about 1 in 3 people are affected by neck pain at least once a year. This is often the result of strain from poor posture or injuries that push the neck muscles outside the normal range of motion.
Neck pain is generally not a serious condition and can go away with minimal care. But it can still be uncomfortable and limit your ability to accomplish day-to-day activities. Fortunately, there are ways to get neck pain relief.
Causes and Symptoms of Neck Pain
The neck is particularly vulnerable to injury. Even simple movements like sitting up too quickly can strain the muscles around your neck.
Neck pain can also occur as a result of poor posture or excessive straining during exercise. Certain sleep habits, such as sleeping on your stomach, can also contribute to neck pain, as can sleeping on overstuffed or unsupportive bedding. Sometimes, neck pain is caused by a sudden injury from a fall, car accident, or contact during sports.
Neck pain symptoms can range from muscle tightness and spasms to headaches or a decreased ability to move your head. These types of symptoms may make it difficult for you to fall asleep, stay asleep, or go about your daily activities without experiencing pain.
In some cases, neck pain can be a symptom of a serious health condition, including:
- Heart attack
- Meningitis
- Fibromyalgia
- Herniated discs
Seek medical care immediately if you are experiencing:
- Neck pain for more than a week
- Severe neck pain from an injury
- Neck pain accompanied by other symptoms of a serious health condition
Treatments for Neck Pain
Mild to moderate neck pain or stiffness generally will go away on its own with sufficient rest. But you may want to consider adding more options to your treatment toolkit, including at-home treatments and over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers.
At-Home Treatments and Activities
There are many at-home treatment options to consider when treating mild to moderate neck pain, including:
- Gentle Stretching and Exercise – once the worst of your pain has subsided, activities like walking and yoga can promote blood flow through the area, which is important for healing. Your doctor or a physical therapist can also provide you with stretching and exercise recommendations.
- Alternating Cold and Heat Therapy – you can reduce inflammation by applying cold, such as an ice pack, for up to 15 minutes several times a day. Or alternate the cold treatment with heat by taking a warm shower or using a heating pad.
- Adjusting Your Sleep Routine – making small changes to your sleep routine can also help alleviate neck pain. If you usually sleep on your stomach, try sleeping on your side or back. If you sleep with large, fluffy pillows, try sleeping on a flatter pillow instead.
You may also look into getting a massage by a trained practitioner to help loosen and stretch your neck and back muscles or making an appointment with a licensed chiropractor. However, if your pain worsens or lasts longer than a week, it is best to speak with your doctor.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medicines
OTC pain relievers can provide temporary relief from minor aches and pains caused by muscle aches in the neck. They also come in many forms. Some are taken orally in pill, capsule, or liquid form. These include medicines containing acetaminophen, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin, ibuprofen, magnesium salicylate, and naproxen sodium. Our Pain Reliever Assessment will help you identify personal risk factors that you can discuss with your healthcare professional to find the right oral OTC pain reliever for you.
There are also OTC topical pain relievers that are applied to the skin, which can be used to treat minor aches and pains that occur in the neck. Common active ingredients for these medicines include menthol, methyl salicylate, capsaicin, camphor, and lidocaine.
When taking OTC pain relievers, it is important to understand that each medicine has potential side effects and interactions with other drugs. Always read the Drug Facts label on the medicine’s bottle or packaging to determine if you have any risk factors related to the medicine’s active ingredients.
OTC medicines can provide safe and effective relief for mild to moderate pain. They aren’t meant to treat chronic pain conditions on a consistent or long-term basis, unless directed by your healthcare professional.
Safe Use Tips for
Neck Pain
Neck pain often heals on its own. But if your neck does not feel better after a few days of self-care, or if the pain gets worse, consider seeing a healthcare professional.
Talk to your doctor or other healthcare professional if you experience:
- Pain that gets worse or lasts several weeks
- Numbness, weakness, or tingling
- Changes in bowel or bladder function
- Fever
- Difficulty swallowing
- A lump in your neck
If you have questions about which OTC pain reliever to take, talk with a healthcare professional about which product is right for you. During your appointment, be sure to mention any health conditions you have and note the dosage of all medicines and dietary supplements that you are currently taking.
A healthcare professional can also recommend additional measures to take if you are not obtaining the desired results from at-home or over-the-counter treatments.
Safety Tips for
Pain
Homeopathic Products
Homeopathic pain-relieving products are derived from plants, minerals, and animal substances that are known for their pharmacological or biological actions. For safety, read all instructions and warnings on the product label before taking any homeopathic product and follow all dosing instructions. Please be aware that products labeled as homeopathic and currently marketed in the U.S. have not been reviewed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for safety and effectiveness to diagnose, treat, cure, prevent or mitigate any diseases or conditions.
OTC homeopathic pain reliever medicines include:
- Arnica montana
- Chamomilla
- Eupatorium perfoliatum
- Hypericum perforatum
- Magnesia phosphorica
- Rhus tox
Answer a few questions to quickly learn about your personal risk factors and which oral OTC pain reliever is right for you.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are medicines used to temporarily treat minor to moderate pain and inflammation related to everything from arthritis, muscle aches, backaches, headaches, toothaches, sprains, strains, and menstrual cramps. They can also be used to reduce fevers and body aches associated with the flu or common cold. NSAIDs are one of two major types of oral over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers, with the other being acetaminophen. There are two types of NSAIDs – oral and topical.
Follow these simple steps from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to dispose of OTCs at home:
- Mix medicines (do not crush tablets or capsules) with an unpalatable substance such as kitty litter or used coffee grounds.
- Place the mixture in a container such as a sealed plastic bag.
- Throw the container in your household trash.
There are also a small number of medicines that can be safely flushed down your sink or toilet, which are highlighted in the FDA's Flush List. These are medicines that have the potential to be misused or abused and can result in death from one dose if inappropriately taken. Do not flush any medicine unless it is on the flush list and always follow disposal instructions that have been provided to you by a healthcare professional. Learn more about safe medicine disposal
