The Risks Of Over-The-Counter Pain Killers

Options for over the counter pain relief

Nearly half of American adults take at least one form of over-the-counter (OTC) pain medication each week. And for many people, these drugs offer safe and effective relief. But they’re also complex and come in a wide range of options–and with potential risks.

The Federal Drug Administration (FDA) has revamped its approval processes for these products in recent years. But it’s still important to understand the dangers of OTC pain medications for yourself–and to consider safer alternatives.

Is taking Tylenol every day safe?

OTC pain relievers, including acetaminophen, ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin, are popular for their convenience and effectiveness. However, even when taken as directed, these medications can have serious side effects.

Acetaminophen

Acetaminophen can be dangerous and lead to liver toxicity in high doses. This is especially true if you combine it with alcohol, as both substances rely on the liver for processing.

Taking as few as four to five extra-strength acetaminophen pills with alcohol can lead to liver damage, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). What’s more, acetaminophen has a “narrow therapeutic window”–meaning there’s a very fine line between a safe dose and a harmful one.

This narrow margin increases the risk of accidental overdose, even without alcohol entered into the equation. This is why the FDA is considering tighter regulations on high-dose OTC acetaminophen (500 mg) products–although for now, they’re still readily available.

According to Dr. Sidney M. Wolfe, founder and senior adviser of the Public Citizen Health Research Group in Washington D.C., “It is inexcusably poor judgment on the part of the FDA to have failed to take action concerning this major source of acetaminophen consumption, and, consequently, acetaminophen toxicity.”

Ibuprofen and Naproxen

These popular non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can lead to gastrointestinal issues–especially with prolonged use. Some of these potential issues include:

Stomach irritation
Stomach bleeding
Ulcers

NSAIDs can also raise blood pressure and the risk of cardiovascular problems, particularly for people with pre-existing hypertension or heart conditions.

Mixing these drugs with alcohol further increases the risk of stomach bleeding and ulcers, as alcohol exacerbates irritation to the stomach lining.

Aspirin

Aspirin shares the risk of stomach upset and gastrointestinal bleeding with other NSAIDs, particularly with long-term use or when taken with alcohol.

Due to its blood-thinning properties, it can also lead to systemic bleeding issues–especially if you’re taking other blood-thinning medications.

If you need pain medication for a headache after drinking–or want to avoid the above risks any other time–consider the following safer options.

Natural Tylenol alternatives

A variety of natural products and noninvasive techniques offer powerful pain relief with fewer side effects and risks:

Topical treatments: Arnica is a popular herbal ointment sold in health food stores. While research on its effectiveness is mixed, some studies show it can be highly effective for pain and bruising–even after surgery. Other beneficial topical options include capsaicin, turmeric, and peppermint oil in creams and gels.
Hot and cold therapy: Applying heat or cold packs directly to sore muscles can help reduce pain and inflammation. Try alternating the two, depending on the area affected and your specific situation.
Acupuncture: This technique from Traditional Chinese Medicine involves stimulating specific body points to boost blood flow and activate other natural pain relief mechanisms in the body (such as endorphin release). See a qualified practitioner rather than attempting this one at home.
Acupressure: Similar to acupuncture but without needles, acupressure uses targeted pressure to relieve tension and muscle pain. You can find guides online and practice acupressure on yourself at home.
Massage therapy: Massage improves circulation, releases muscle tension, and helps reduce pain. Enjoy regular professional massages, or buy a massage gun and use it on your own on any muscles that need relaxing.
Yoga and stretching: Regular stretching and movement increase flexibility, relieve stiffness, and ease pain.
Meditation and mindfulness: These practices help reduce stress, a common contributor to chronic pain.
Dietary adjustments: Prioritizing foods like omega-3-rich fish and nuts, as well as polyphenol-packed leafy greens in your diet, can help reduce pain naturally by combating systemic inflammation.

Combining these topical treatments and lifestyle strategies can help you develop a holistic approach to pain relief that is both safe and effective long-term.

If you’re still struggling with pain and feel the need to incorporate OTC medication, use it with caution and always take it as directed. If your pain is chronic, consult your healthcare provider to create a long-term plan that works for you.

Understanding your options and the potential risks empowers you to make informed choices, supporting your health and well-being over the long run.