What should I take for minor pains?
April 20th, 2012Walk down any pharmacy “pain” aisle and you will find a confusing array of medications. Generally, there are three main categories: NSAID’s (Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), Acetaminophen, and topical medications. The best medication for most minor aches and pains are NSAID’s as they will reduce the inflammation that is causing the pain. The family of NSAID’s is sold under many trade and generic names including Motrin, Advil, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Naproxen, Naprosyn, Alleve, and Midol. However NSAID’s should not be taken if you have a history of kidney disease. NSAID’s can be toxic to the kidney, and if you have any pre-existing kidney disease you are putting yourself at tremendous risk. Be sure to take NSAID’s with food as they are a common cause of stomach ulcers.
Acetaminophen (sold under the Tylenol or APAP names) is good for reducing fevers and a good pain reliever, but it does not improve inflammation of muscles and tendons. It is a good adjunct to NSAID’s if the pain is more intense. Acetaminophen is toxic in doses higher than 4,000 milligrams for people with normal livers. For people with liver diseases such as hepatitis, I would advise no more than 2,000 milligrams per day. Be aware that acetaminophen is often found in combination with other drugs so be sure to add these into your tally of acetaminophen doses. For example, the migraine medication, Excedrin, and some liquid cough syrups contain acetaminophen. Tylenol PM is good if the pain is disturbing your sleep.
Topical analgesics are excellent for pain, and I feel they are underutilized. These include icy-hot, Tiger Balm, Ben Gay, Arnica spray, Capsaicin, and Aspercream. They will initially feel hot when applied at first, but eventually feel cool. They work by numbing the area much like the way your tongue goes numb after eating spicy foods. They have almost no effect on the kidneys or liver as they don’t really get absorbed into the bloodstream to any significant degree. Just be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after applying them as it can sting even if a small amount touches your eyes. If this occurs, flush your eyes with copious amounts of water in the shower.
Be sure to ask your doctor which pain reliever is right for you. Do not take any pain reliever for more than 2 weeks as this may indicate a more serious problem and you should seek evaluation by a physician. You do not want to risk permanent kidney and liver damage.
