Having headaches, body aches, or a pulled muscle? Over-the-counter pain medication like Ibuprofen, Aspirin, Hydrocodone -Acetaminophen, Naproxen, and Tramadol can help, unlike prescription medications like opioids. Over-the-counter medicines aren’t habit-forming and are less likely to cause dizziness and drowsiness. They are easy to find and are affordable.
There are many other prescription medications that are much more potent pain relievers, but they consist of a higher risk of abuse, misuse, and addiction.In this blog, We are going to talk about quick heal pain medication that are most commonly used by people in America that provide instant relief from any occasional pain.
Over The Counter And Prescription Pain Medication
Here are some of the most common and best over the counter and prescription pain medication that are most commonly used by the people of The United States And America.
Ibuprofen
It belongs to a group of pain medication called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These medications are used to treat pain, fever, and swelling. Most people consider NSAIDs as the best pain medication that are easily available in a medical store or pharmacy.
These medicines are anti-inflammatory over-the-counter medicines that are only effective on certain types of pain, such as inflammation, arthritis, joint pain, and muscle pain. These risks are rare, with recommended ibuprofen doses used for short periods of time. However, your risk may be higher if you have a history of kidney or heart problems or if you take medications that increase the risk of bleeding, such as blood thinners.
So, talk to your prescriber or pharmacist before taking an NSAID like ibuprofen. They can help you determine whether you’re at increased risk of side effects.
Ibuprofen starts working immediately after 30 minutes of taking the medication. The maximum pain relief can take around 1 – 2 hours. But the effects of this medication and time taken to work depends on an individual’s factors. Side Effects Of Ibuprofen Are –
- Nausea
- Stomach upset
- Heartburn
- Dizziness
Misuse or overdose of these medications can cause liver damage, bleeding, and kidney problems. To Avoid side effects, one must use the medication as advised by the pharmacists.
Aspirin
Aspirin is a type of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug called NSAIDs that are used to reduce fever and treat mild to moderate pain, inflammation, and arthritis pain. But it’s unique compared to other NSAIDs. It can also protect the heart in people who’ve had a heart attack or stroke, or are at increased risk of cardiovascular disease, helps prevent, and decreases the risk of blood clotting.In fact, it’s more commonly used for its heart benefits than used for pain relief. Other NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen aren’t used to protect the heart.
But this can also increase your risk of bleeding. While other NSAIDs can also increase the risk of bleeding, aspirin may have a greater risk. Because of this, ibuprofen or naproxen may be safer NSAIDs for pain relief and reducing fever.
Side Effects Of Aspirin Are –
- Increases risk of bleeding
Hydrocodone-Acetaminophen
It is one of the most potent pain relievers sold under the brand name Vicodin, which belongs to a class of drugs called opioid analgesics. This medication is used for pain management and also used to treat chronic pain. This medication is indicated to be used on a doctor’s prescription for short-term treatment of pain.
Hydrocodone and Acetaminophen, when combined together, help in the effective treatment of pain. Hydrocodone is an opioid pain reliever, whereas acetaminophen is a non-opioid pain reliever and helps to increase the effects of Hydrocodone. Recreational use of this pain medication is common in the United States and America.
Vicodin serves the purpose of relieving moderate to severe, chronic, or acute pain in people who are struggling with such pain.
Side Effects Of Vicodin Are –
- Dizziness
- Sleepiness
- Constipation
- Vomiting
- Lightheadedness
- Euphoria
- Sedation
- Nausea
- Headaches
Naproxen
Naproxen (Aleve) is the most potent anti-inflammatory and over-the-counter pain reliever available without a doctor’s prescription. It is effective, especially for sprains, sunburns, arthritis, and other health problems.Doses of Naproxen last longer than other non-prescription pain relievers. They last for about eight to 12 hours.
This pain medication is not recommended for people who are 65 years old or above. Older adults above 65 years are at higher risk of having side effects than younger adults, such as ulcers and bleeding.Side Effects of Naproxen Are –
- Confusion
- Headaches
- Change in vision
- Dizziness
- Feeling sleepy or tired
- Rashes
Tramadol
Tramadol is a powerful painkiller belonging to a group of medicines called opiates, also called narcotic analgesics. It is initially used in the treatment of moderate to severe pain and pain caused by surgery and serious injury.If you are suffering with long term pain, your doctor may also prescribe it when other pain medications don’t work effectively.
Tramadol does not have the ability to cure the pain completely, but you will not be able to feel it as much.This medication indicated to be used on a doctor’s prescription. It comes in various forms, such as capsules, tablets, and liquid solutions. It can also be given by injection, but this is usually only done under doctor’s supervision.
Side Effects Of Tramadol –
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Sweating
- Muscle weakness
Summing Up
Here are some of the over-the-counter and prescription pain medications for Americans that start working immediately and provide instant relief from pain. Painkillers contain a higher risk of abuse and misuse, and when used in excess or inadequate amounts, they can severely damage your liver and cause death. Always remember not to use pain medications on a daily basis or for a prolonged period of time.
Otherwise, it can lead to dependency and can make you addicted to it. You can use these medications for short-term relief of occasional pain, and it doesn’t or are ineffective on the pain, then you must talk to a doctor and get prescription medications best suited according to your health condition.