{"id":57193,"date":"2023-02-16T14:19:19","date_gmt":"2023-02-16T19:19:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/?p=57193"},"modified":"2024-10-25T10:51:02","modified_gmt":"2024-10-25T14:51:02","slug":"best-otc-anti-inflammatory","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/best-otc-anti-inflammatory\/","title":{"rendered":"What are the best OTC anti-inflammatory drugs?"},"content":{"rendered":"

If you experience minor aches and pains, an anti-inflammatory medicine may be the first thing you look for at the pharmacy. There are many different over-the-counter (OTC) drugs that can help relieve inflammation and pain, and they typically fall under the same class of medications called <\/span>nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)<\/span><\/a>. Ibuprofen and aspirin are just a couple of the most popular NSAIDs. <\/span><\/p>\n

It’s important to note that not all OTC anti-inflammatory drugs are the same. They may differ in effectiveness, cost, and side effects. If an OTC anti-inflammatory isn’t enough to treat your pain or inflammation, you may need a stronger prescription drug. It’s best to consult a healthcare provider for medical advice on the best treatment option, especially if you have underlying medical conditions or take other medications. <\/span><\/p>\n

Continue reading to learn more about the best OTC anti-inflammatory drugs.<\/span><\/p>\n

Common OTC anti-inflammatory medications<\/span><\/h2>\n

NSAIDs are the most common OTC anti-inflammatory medications, and they work by blocking the body’s production of certain chemicals called prostaglandins. These chemicals are involved with pain, inflammation, and <\/span>fever<\/span><\/a>. <\/span><\/p>\n

NSAIDs are often used to treat aches and pains caused by toothaches, headaches, muscle aches, and menstrual cramps, among other types of pain. Unlike other pain relievers like Tylenol (acetaminophen), NSAIDs are effective for treating pain and discomfort caused by inflammatory conditions like arthritis. Acetaminophen is <\/span>not an anti-inflammatory drug<\/span><\/a>. <\/span><\/p>\n

Aspirin<\/span><\/h3>\n

Aspirin<\/span><\/a> is a widely available NSAID used to treat minor aches and pain, as well as fever. Brand names include <\/span>Bayer<\/span><\/a> and <\/span>Ecotrin<\/span><\/a>. Aspirin, also known as acetylsalicylic acid, can usually be found over the counter as a generic drug. It is not recommended for use in children under 12 or people with bleeding disorders. <\/span><\/p>\n

The dosage of aspirin will vary depending on the symptoms being treated. Higher doses are typically needed for pain and inflammation. On the other hand, <\/span>low-dose aspirin<\/span><\/a> is often taken as a blood thinner to prevent blood clots and reduce the risk of strokes and heart attacks in people at high risk. <\/span><\/p>\n

Ibuprofen<\/span><\/h3>\n

Ibuprofen<\/span><\/a> is a common NSAID used for pain and fever in adults and children. It is available in different formulations, including tablets, capsules, and liquids, and in brand-name and generic forms. The brand names of ibuprofen include <\/span>Advil<\/span><\/a> and <\/span>Motrin<\/span><\/a>. <\/span><\/p>\n

Ibuprofen is usually dosed every four to six hours as needed for pain relief. It is one of the most common NSAIDs used in younger children, as there are different forms of ibuprofen made specifically for children. <\/span><\/p>\n

Naproxen <\/span><\/h3>\n

Naproxen<\/span><\/a> is another common NSAID found over the counter, and it is available in generic and brand-name forms. The brand name of OTC naproxen is <\/span>Aleve<\/span><\/a>. Unlike other NSAIDs, naproxen is only available as an oral tablet or capsule. <\/span><\/p>\n

Naproxen lasts longer than other NSAIDs, as it is usually dosed every eight to 12 hours. It is only approved for adults and children over the age of 12. There are two different types of naproxen: regular naproxen and naproxen sodium. The most common form of naproxen is naproxen sodium because it is absorbed more quickly than the regular form. <\/span><\/p>\n

Diclofenac <\/span><\/h3>\n

Diclofenac<\/span><\/a> is an NSAID known under the brand name <\/span>Voltaren<\/span><\/a>. It is applied as a topical gel to the joints of the hands, feet, or knees as needed for pain due to arthritis. <\/span><\/p>\n

The topical gel was initially approved as a prescription drug in 2007. However, <\/span>in 2020<\/span><\/a>, the FDA approved Voltaren as an OTC drug. As a result, it is now more accessible for treating joint pain and swelling caused by arthritis. It is also available as a delayed-release oral tablet with a prescription.<\/span><\/p>\n

Best OTC anti-inflammatory drugs<\/span><\/h2>\n

The best OTC anti-inflammatory drug will depend on your overall health condition, the type of pain being experienced, and other factors. In addition, some OTC drugs may be cheaper than others. However, with a prescription from a healthcare provider, coupons and discount cards may help lower retail prices. <\/span><\/p>\n

The following table lists the most common OTC pain relievers. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Medication<\/td>\nUsual OTC dosage<\/td>\nCoupons<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Bayer, Ecotrin (aspirin)<\/td>\n325-650 mg every 4-6 hours as needed for pain, fever, and inflammation<\/p>\n

Maximum dosage: 4,000 mg in 24 hours<\/td>\n

Aspirin coupons<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Motrin, Advil (ibuprofen)<\/td>\n200-400 mg every 4-6 hours as needed for pain, fever, and inflammation<\/p>\n

Maximum dosage: 1,200 mg in 24 hours<\/td>\n

Ibuprofen coupons<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Aleve (naproxen)<\/td>\n220 mg every 8-12 hours as needed for pain, fever, and inflammation<\/p>\n

Maximum dosage: 660 mg in 24 hours<\/td>\n

Naproxen coupons<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Voltaren (diclofenac)<\/td>\n2-4 g applied to the affected area 4 times daily<\/p>\n

Maximum dosage: 32 g per day over all affected joints<\/td>\n

Diclofenac coupons<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

OTC anti-inflammatory side effects<\/span><\/h2>\n

Despite their popularity, NSAIDs can cause a range of <\/span>side effects<\/span>, some of which can be serious or even life-threatening in some cases. However, the side effects of NSAIDs are generally mild and temporary with short-term use and in the recommended doses. Some people won’t experience any adverse effects. <\/span><\/p>\n

Common side effects of NSAIDs include:<\/span><\/p>\n