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Factors to Consider When Using Over-the-Counter Pain Medication

Many of us have used over the counter (OTC) pain medications at some point to help with allergies, improve cold symptoms or reduce pain and inflammation. OTC medications are drugs you can buy on your own without needing a doctor’s prescription. When you’re taking an OTC drug, it is important to think about things like your age, pregnancy status, and any existing medical conditions you may have to ensure you are taking your medication safely. Be sure to read the label of your OTC medications carefully and ask your healthcare provider any questions you have. Keep reading to learn more about the different factors to keep in mind when you’re taking an OTC drug.

Age

  • As we age, our body absorbs and breaks down medications differently. This means the recommended dosage may change over time.
    • Changes to our digestive system can impact how quickly medications are absorbed into our bloodstream.
    • The circulatory system, which helps move blood throughout the body, can also slow down with age. This can impact how drugs are broken down and removed from the body through the liver and kidneys.
  • Our weight can also change as we age, which can impact how long the medication stays in our systems.

Pregnancy

  • Always consult your healthcare provider before taking any OTC medications during pregnancy. Medication that is normally considered safe may impact your body differently during pregnancy or cause unintended harm to you or your baby.
  • Be particularly careful with the following medications:
    • Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDS), such as aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac, and celecoxib can increase the risk of a miscarriage in the first half of pregnancy.
    • Opioids have been associated with an increased risk of birth defects.
    • Acetaminophen is generally the recommended drug for pain relief during pregnancy, but some studies have shown that mothers who took acetaminophen during pregnancy were more likely to have a child with attentiondeficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Health Conditions

Some health conditions can increase the chances of negative side effects or make certain medications unsafe or ineffective. See below for some examples:

  • High blood pressure: Decongestants (used for a stuffy nose) can increase blood pressure and heart rate and prevent high blood pressure medications from working. NSAIDS, such as ibuprofen, can increase blood pressure by reducing sodium retention. Antacids are often high in sodium which can also increase blood pressure.
  • Diabetes: Decongestants, which can increase blood pressure and narrow blood vessels, may cause issues for those diagnosed with diabetes. Cough and cold medications should also be used with caution because they often contain sugar or alcohol which can impact blood glucose levels.
  • Liver problems: Acetaminophen can interact with prescription blood thinners and cause liver damage.
  • Stomach problems: NSAIDs can irritate the stomach lining and increase the risk of an upset stomach or bleeding. Some antacids contain magnesium and can cause diarrhea especially when combined with other OTC medications.

Your healthcare provider is always your best bet if you have any questions about which OTC drugs are safe for you to use. Consulting a healthcare provider can help you:

  • Avoid interactions with other drugs you may be taking.
  • Manage underlying conditions.
  • Receive the proper dosage and take the medication for the correct duration.
  • Monitor side effects.
  • Understand the risks and benefits of a medication to make informed decisions.
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If you or someone you know is in crisis, contact the Military Crisis Line at 988 and press 1, or Text 838255. You can also call 911.