Pharmacies offer hundreds of over-the-counter medications and painkillers that are easily accessible for you. The countless brands and options of medications available, bring a slew of directions and warnings about how the medication should be properly taken. It’s very easy for misinformation to spread fast, leading to an increase in hospitalizations across the country for accidental overdose. With almost 50 percent of adults in the United States taking painkillers to treat their chronic pain, it is so important to take the time to read how your over-the-counter medication should be taken.
At Pain Specialty Group, we recommend seeing one of our pain experts if your pain is strong enough that it interferes with your daily life and keeps you from participating in activities you love. If this is not a viable option for you at the moment, finding a temporary painkiller would be beneficial.
Do Your Research for Over-the-Counter Products
When the Food and Drug Administration approves a medication for over-the-counter use, it is very possible that future developments may reveal that the product is not as safe as initially thought. For example, acetaminophen, a common agent in painkillers, has negative side effects when taken regularly and at high doses. Acetaminophen can cause severe liver damage, which was discovered after there were frequent news stories with people who experienced liver failure. With this new information, the FDA reduced the recommended dosage as well as extended the time between when one may take acetaminophen.
Never Combine Pain Relievers of the Same Type
Taking two medications for the same issue is not recommended. For example, if you are experiencing joint pain from your arthritis, taking both Ibuprofen and Naproxen at the same time, can put you at risk for overdose. Before taking any medication, you must read and follow the directions.
If You Drink, Know How it Affects The Drug
Mixing alcohol with a prescription or over-the-counter mediation is a bad idea and can put you at major risk. Although the medications you take are safe, mixing them with alcohol is a different story. Most people believe that taking their medication if they are under the drinking limit is okay, but this certainly is not the case. Aside from putting your health at risk, mixing alcohol with a drug can render the drug ineffective.The best way to manage and treat your pain is to set up an appointment with us at Pain Specialty Group. Our expert providers will determine the best personalized plan of care for you. Contact us here at the Pain Specialty Group in New Hampshire to find the best treatment for your condition.
