Safe Use of Over-the-Counter Pain Relief Drugs

Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relief drugs are often used to treat cold and flu symptoms, headaches, muscle aches, menstrual cramps and back pain. OTC medications can be bought without a prescription, but you may still want to consult a health care professional before you use them if you have underlying health conditions. It is important to read the labels on OTC medications to choose one that will work best for your symptoms, is safe for you to use given your medical history and to ensure you’re taking the proper dosage.

What Is Listed on an Over-the-Counter Drug Label?

• The name of the drug.
• The product’s active ingredients, including the amount in each dosage unit
• The purpose of the product.
• The uses for the product.
• Specific warnings, including when the product should not be used under any circumstances, and when you need to consult with a doctor or pharmacist. This section also describes side effects that could occur and substances or activities to avoid.
• Dosage instructions: when, how, and how often to take the product.
• The product’s inactive ingredients – to help consumers avoid ingredients that may cause an allergic reaction.

The table below includes some common pain relief drugs, their active ingredients (noted in parentheses), and information on how to use them safely.

Drug Interactions

When you take any of these medications or other OTC drugs, it is important to be mindful of potential drug interactions. Drug interactions occur when two or more drugs are taken at the same time, or a drug is mixed with a food, beverage or supplement that causes an unwanted side effect. Some medical conditions can also cause drug interactions to occur. Below are some drug interactions that can occur when taking OTC medications:

• Alcohol and antihistamines. Avoid alcohol if you are taking antihistamines, cough or cold products with the ingredient dextromethorphan, or drugs that treat sleeplessness
• Do not use drugs that treat sleeplessness if you are taking prescription sedatives or tranquilizers.
• Aspirin and blood thinners. Check with your doctor before taking products containing aspirin if you’re taking a prescription blood thinner or if you have diabetes or gout.
• Do not use laxatives when you have stomach pain, nausea or vomiting.
• Decongestant and blood pressure medication or antidepressants. Unless directed by a doctor, do not use a nasal decongestant if you are taking a prescription drug for high blood pressure or depression, or if you have heart or thyroid disease, diabetes or prostate problems.

Additional Tips for Safely Using OTC Drugs

• Clean out your medicine cabinet at least once a year and throw out any expired medications.
• Store medications in a cool, dry place.
• Keep medications in their original container.
• Always talk with your doctor before takin any OTC drugs if you are pregnant or breast feeding.
• Read the label and follow all directions.
• Be aware that OTC products come in different strengths.
• Do not double dose if you or your child seems sicker.
• Check the label before taking two medications at once.