How they work:
- NSAIDs relieve pain by reducing the production of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that cause pain.
- Acetaminophen works on the parts of the brain that receive the "pain messages." They are easier on the stomach, and are recommended more often for use by children.
This is a great article on Consumer Health and pain medications at the Mayo Clinic website, and discusses different types of pain medications, as well as their forms (capsule, gel, tablet) and other factors to consider (inactive ingredients), as well as the combination medications (Excedrin is a combination of acetaminophen, caffeine and other ingredients).
Lastly, the generic versions or store-brand names of all of these pain relievers are just as good as the brand names I provided above, but cost a lot less!
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Here is some information regarding the different types of the most common OTC pain-relievers:
Fever-reducers:
- NSAIDs (include ibuprofen [Motrin], naproxen [Aleve] and aspirin)
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
Relieve pain from muscle aches, headaches, toothaches, menstrual cramps:
- NSAIDs
- Acetaminophen
Reduce inflammation
- Only NSAIDs
How they work:
- NSAIDs relieve pain by reducing the production of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that cause pain.
- Acetaminophen works on the parts of the brain that receive the "pain messages." They are easier on the stomach, and are recommended more often for use by children.
This is a great article on Consumer Health and pain medications at the Mayo Clinic website, and discusses different types of pain medications, as well as their forms (capsule, gel, tablet) and other factors to consider (inactive ingredients), as well as the combination medications (Excedrin is a combination of acetaminophen, caffeine and other ingredients).
There are certain health conditions and risks associated with these OTC (over-the-counter) pain relievers, and you can read about them below:
-FDA Medication Guide for NSAIDs
-FDA Acetaminophen Health Bulletin
Lastly, the generic versions or store-brand names of all of these pain relievers are just as good as the brand names I provided above, but cost a lot less!
April 28, 2009 - 1:03pmThis Comment
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