Best Over The Counter Medicine For Pulled Muscle
Experiencing a pulled muscle can be a painful and uncomfortable experience. It is a common injury that can happen to anyone who uses their muscles regularly. While the best way to treat a pulled muscle is to rest and allow your body to heal naturally, there are some over the counter (OTC) medicines that can help alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with this injury. In this article, we will discuss the best OTC medicine for pulled muscle that you can use to ease your symptoms and get back to your routine as soon as possible.
1. Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen is a popular OTC medicine that is commonly used to relieve pain and reduce fever. It works by blocking the production of certain chemicals in the body that cause pain and inflammation. This makes it an effective option for treating pulled muscles. Acetaminophen is available in various strengths, and it is important to follow the recommended dosage on the label to avoid any negative side effects. It is also important to note that acetaminophen should not be taken for more than 10 days without consulting a doctor.
2. Ibuprofen
Ibuprofen is another popular OTC medicine that is used to treat pain and inflammation. It works by reducing the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals that cause pain and inflammation in the body. This makes it an effective option for treating pulled muscles. Ibuprofen is available in various strengths, and it is important to follow the recommended dosage on the label to avoid any negative side effects. It is also important to note that ibuprofen should not be taken for more than 10 days without consulting a doctor.
3. Naproxen
Naproxen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is used to treat pain and inflammation. It works by blocking the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals that cause pain and inflammation in the body. This makes it an effective option for treating pulled muscles. Naproxen is available in various strengths, and it is important to follow the recommended dosage on the label to avoid any negative side effects. It is also important to note that naproxen should not be taken for more than 10 days without consulting a doctor.
4. Topical Analgesics
Topical analgesics are OTC medicines that are applied directly to the skin to relieve pain and inflammation. They work by blocking the transmission of pain signals to the brain. Topical analgesics are available in various forms, such as creams, gels, and sprays. They can be effective for treating pulled muscles, especially if the pain is localized to a specific area of the body. It is important to follow the recommended dosage on the label and to avoid applying the medicine to broken skin or sensitive areas of the body.
5. Muscle Relaxants
Muscle relaxants are OTC medicines that are used to relieve muscle spasms and stiffness. They work by blocking the transmission of nerve impulses to the muscles. Muscle relaxants can be effective for treating pulled muscles, especially if the injury is causing spasms or stiffness in the affected area. It is important to follow the recommended dosage on the label and to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery while taking muscle relaxants.
In conclusion, there are several OTC medicines that can help alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with pulled muscles. Acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and naproxen are effective options for reducing pain and inflammation, while topical analgesics and muscle relaxants can be used to target specific symptoms. It is important to follow the recommended dosage on the label and to consult a doctor if you experience any negative side effects or if your symptoms persist for more than a few days.