The Side-Effects of Over-The-Counter Drugs

We rely solely on common pain relievers for every day aches and pains. Since they were from the big name makers, sometimes we don't even bother to read the label. Often, we are overwhelmed with so many different types of over the counter medicines that we just take the pill and forget it.

Below are the four most common over the counter pain relievers in the market, and their side effects. Before you pop the pill, make sure you know the key differences among them.

Since these are over the counter drugs, the pharmacists are your best friend. Talk to them before buying to figure out what is best for your condition.

Tylenol (Acetaminophen)

Use for: This is best for fever and pain, and it lasts for 4 to 6 hours. It is also good for minor sprains and aches.

Side effects: If you take more than eight extra-strength pills in two days, and have more than seven drinks a week, it might cause liver damage. People with pre-existing liver condition, and drink alcohol regularly, should consult the pharmacists.

Caution: Keep in mind that it's easy to use too much by taking two or more medicines with acetaminophen, like Tylenol Plus, NyQuil, or Benadryl Allergy/Cold, and prescriptions like Vicodin or Percocet.

Advil or Motrin (Ibuprofen)

Use for: Advil is best for menstrual cramps, fever, sprains, and joint pain that linked to osteoarthritis. It lasts for 4 to 6 hours.

Side effects: It might cause gas, bloating, stomach pain, heartburn, dizziness, and constipation. Prolonged use can cause ulcers, elevated blood pressure, kidney, and liver damage, and in rare cases, stroke or heart attack.

Caution: If you have pre-existing heart or kidney disease, have hypertension, diabetes, ulcers, or bleeding problems, and take diuretics, consult the pharmacists.

Take with food but not with milk. Use ibuprofen 8 hours before or at least 30 minutes after taking aspirin. Otherwise, aspirin is less effective for the heart.

Bayer, St. Joseph, Bufferin, Ecotrin (Aspirin)