Types of Pain Relievers Available Over the Counter

Pain. It’s an unavoidable part of life but no one wants to deal with more than they have to. Thankfully, we live in a time when hundreds of effective pain management tools exist. 

While you might need prescription medication for the worst pain, most day-to-day aches and pains can be treated with over-the-counter pain medications. Here are a few examples:

Pills

Over-the-counter pain pills are widely used for treating pain. These pills contain various active ingredients, the most common being aspirin, acetaminophen, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Different people respond differently to each of these medications, and most people have their go-to pain medication. 

These medications are also developed for babies and children. Just be careful to follow the correct dosing information and never take aspirin if you suffer from bleeding ulcers or blood clotting issues. 

Topical Creams and Gels

Pain-relieving topical creams and gels are also available over the counter. These medications are generally used for specific ailments. For example, there are creams and gels for burns, sore muscles, and even minor cuts and scrapes. 

Topical pain relievers like benzocaine can be used on sources of oral pain like canker sores. You might find relief for nerve pain associated with fibromyalgia by using creams specifically developed for that. There are even creams for arthritis that can relieve pain in your hands and feet, neck, back, and knees. 

Stomach Pain Medications

One area where people commonly suffer from pain is in the stomach and gut. Thank goodness there are fast-acting over-the-counter pain medications that can quickly relieve stomach aches. These could come in the form of chewable tablets, liquids, or tablets that are dissolved in water. You might find that one active ingredient works better for different maladies than others. For example, the calcium carbonate in Tums might knock out your heartburn right away, while the bismuth subsalicylate in Pepto-Bismol might be better for tummy aches. 

With so many pain remedies available over the counter, you shouldn’t have to suffer through minor aches and pains. If something is hurting, there is most likely a medication for that! 

Whether you are dealing with a headache, achy joints, muscle pain, sunburn, toothache, sore throat, urinary pain, gastritis, menstrual cramping, or even mouth sores, there are over-the-counter pain medications that are highly effective at relieving your pain. Don’t suffer in silence! Head on to your nearest pharmacy and check out what’s available to provide you with some much-need relief.

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