Risks of Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers and Natural Alternatives

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.”

Related:   The Five Herbs You Need for Muscle Pain

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 and relieve stiffness, easing pain over time.
  • 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.
Related:   5 Natural Remedies for Chronic Pain

Combining these topical treatments and lifestyle strategies can help you develop a holistic approach to pain relief that’s 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.

thyroid

References:

An Exciting New Chapter in OTC Drug History: OTC Monograph Reform in the CARES Act | FDA

Acetaminophen – LiverTox – NCBI Bookshelf.

Using medication: Learn More – The safe use of over-the-counter painkillers – InformedHealth.org – NCBI Bookshelf

Remembering Dr. Sidney M. Wolfe – Public Citizen

Research summaries – Preventing peptic ulcers – InformedHealth.org – NCBI Bookshelf.

Gastrointestinal and Cardiovascular Risk of Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs – PMC.

The use and effect of analgesics in patients who regularly drink alcohol – PubMed

Acetaminophen – LiverTox – NCBI Bookshelf

The effect of acetaminophen (four grams a day for three consecutive days) on hepatic tests in alcoholic patients – a multicenter randomized study

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and organ damage: A current perspective – PMC

Gastrointestinal injury associated with NSAID use: a case study and review of risk factors and preventative strategies

Role of Topical Pain Creams in Pain Management

Effect of Homeopathic Arnica montana on Bruising in Face-lifts: Results of a Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial

EFFECT OF COLD AND HEAT THERAPIES ON PAIN RELIEF IN PATIENTS WITH DELAYED ONSET MUSCLE SORENESS: A NETWORK META-ANALYSIS

Related:   Using Acupuncture To Treat Chronic Migraines

Understandings of acupuncture application and mechanisms – PMC

Contemporary acupressure therapy: Adroit cure for painless recovery of therapeutic ailments – PMC

The Impact of Massage Therapy on Function in Pain Populations—A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Exploring the therapeutic effects of yoga and its ability to increase quality of life – PMC

Meditation: A Promising Approach for Alleviating Chronic Pain – PMC.

The effect of an anti-inflammatory diet on chronic pain: a pilot study – PMC

Author
Carrie Solomon

Carrie Solomon is a freelance health writer, web copywriter, and passionate wellness enthusiast. She’s on a mission to help wellness-focused companies everywhere educate, engage, and inspire their audiences to make the world a healthier, happier place. Learn more about her at copybycarrie.com or on LinkedIn.

Author
Aristotle Economou, DC, LAc, (Az) DiplAc (IAMA), FIAMA,

Aristotle Economou, DC, LAc, (Az) DiplAc (IAMA), FIAMA, is a member of The Institute for Functional Medicine. He is the author of Change The Way You Heal: 7 Steps to Highly Effective Healing, and has more than 20 years of clinical experience. To learn more about Dr. Economou, visit draristotle.com.

Be the first to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.


*