Naproxen (Aleve) is the most powerful anti-inflammatory pain reliever available without a prescription. It's especially effective for sprains, sunburns, arthritis, and other conditions. Most over-the-counter pain relievers are good at reducing pain as a symptom when taken for short periods and as recommended. After taking opioid pain relievers for a while, you may find that you need an increasing amount of the medication to achieve the same effect and relieve pain.
If a pain reliever doesn't work as well as it should, your doctor may change you to a different dose, add or try another drug. Your healthcare provider can work with you to find the right medication to help you enjoy better, pain-free days. In addition, your doctor may prescribe opioids to take as needed if you have intercurrent pain, that is, a flare-up of pain that occurs despite taking uninterrupted doses. Opioids can make a big difference for people with moderate to severe pain, but they aren't always the right choice.
If you had a C-section (C-section) or a difficult delivery, you may need to relieve the pain. Prescription pain relievers provide stronger relief for chronic or severe pain after trauma or surgery. Aspirin (Bayer, Bufferin, Excedrin) is one of the oldest pain relievers and is used to reduce pain, swelling, and fever. Pain relievers are medicines that reduce or relieve headaches, muscle aches, arthritis, or other aches and pains.
Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) may be more effective for some symptoms or conditions, depending on the type of pain. Pain relievers relieve discomfort caused by illnesses, injuries, surgical procedures, and chronic conditions. When you have a headache or mild muscle pain, an over-the-counter pain reliever is usually enough to make you feel better. If your pain isn't related to cancer, talk to your doctor regularly to find out if you should continue taking opioids.
The two main types of over-the-counter pain relievers are acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
