There are many over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers on the market. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is a popular choice for reducing fever and relieving mild to moderate pain. But it's important to take it as directed to avoid liver damage (no more than 4,000 mg per day for most adults). Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve) are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) that work differently from acetaminophen. They help with pain and fever, as well as help reduce inflammation. But NSAIDs commonly cause digestion-related side effects and, in rare cases, kidney damage.
Aspirin is an NSAID often taken for heart health that also works as a blood thinner. With so many options available, we've prepared a quick OTC pain medications quiz to help you better understand these medications and make informed choices about managing your pain.
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