Best Over The Counter Pain Medicine For Back Pain
Back pain is a common problem that affects millions of Americans every year. Whether it's caused by an injury, poor posture, or a medical condition, the pain can be debilitating and make it difficult to carry out daily activities. Thankfully, there are several over-the-counter (OTC) pain medicines that can provide relief. In this article, we'll take a look at some of the best OTC pain medicines for back pain.
1. Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen is one of the most commonly used OTC pain medicines for back pain. It works by blocking the production of certain chemicals in the brain that cause pain and fever. Acetaminophen is generally considered safe and effective when used as directed, but it's important to be aware of the recommended dosage and any potential side effects.
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the maximum recommended daily dose of acetaminophen is 4,000 milligrams (mg) for adults. Taking more than this amount can cause liver damage or even liver failure. Common side effects of acetaminophen include nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain.
2. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are another common type of OTC pain medicine for back pain. Examples of NSAIDs include ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve). These drugs work by reducing inflammation in the body, which can help relieve pain and swelling.
Like acetaminophen, NSAIDs can be effective when used as directed, but they can also have side effects. According to the NIH, common side effects of NSAIDs include stomach pain, heartburn, and nausea. Long-term use of NSAIDs can also increase the risk of heart attack or stroke, so it's important to talk to your doctor before taking these medicines for an extended period of time.
3. Topical pain relievers
Topical pain relievers are another option for people with back pain. These medicines are applied directly to the skin and can provide targeted relief to the affected area. Examples of topical pain relievers include creams, gels, and patches that contain ingredients like menthol, capsaicin, or lidocaine.
Topical pain relievers can be a good option for people who prefer not to take oral medications or who have stomach issues that make it difficult to tolerate NSAIDs or acetaminophen. However, it's important to be aware of the potential side effects of these medicines, which can include skin irritation, redness, or burning.
4. Muscle relaxants
Muscle relaxants are another type of OTC pain medicine that can be used for back pain. These drugs work by relaxing the muscles in the affected area, which can help relieve tension and reduce pain. Examples of muscle relaxants that are available OTC include chlorzoxazone (Parafon Forte) and methocarbamol (Robaxin).
Muscle relaxants can be effective for short-term relief of back pain, but they can also have side effects. Common side effects of muscle relaxants include drowsiness, dizziness, and dry mouth.
5. Combination pain relievers
Finally, there are several OTC pain medicines that combine different types of pain relievers to provide more comprehensive relief. For example, some medicines may contain both acetaminophen and an NSAID, while others may contain a muscle relaxant and a pain reliever.
Combination pain relievers can be effective for certain types of back pain, but it's important to be aware of the potential side effects and to talk to your doctor before taking these medicines. Some combination pain relievers can be habit-forming or can interact with other medications you're taking.
Conclusion
There are several over-the-counter pain medicines that can provide relief for back pain. Acetaminophen, NSAIDs, topical pain relievers, muscle relaxants, and combination pain relievers are all options to consider. However, it's important to be aware of the recommended dosages, potential side effects, and any interactions with other medications you're taking. If your back pain is severe or doesn't improve with OTC pain medicines, it's important to talk to your doctor to determine the underlying cause and to explore other treatment options.
