Choose wisely and use sparingly
Aug 02 '00
There are several factors which affect the effectiveness of OTC pain relievers. There are also factors that determine the safety of these pain relievers. Knowing your own body and medical history will greatly help you find the one that's right for you.
How old are you?
Children should never be given aspirin, due to the link to Reyes Syndrome, which leaves acetaminophen and ibuprofen as the only other options. However, a daily aspirin regimen has been proven to reduce the risk of heart attacks and aid in a faster recovery in older adults.
Are you pregnant or nursing?
The debate rages on regarding the benefits of an aspirin regimen in pregnancy versus the possible complications due to its use. 15 years ago, pregnant women were cautioned to avoid the use of aspirin. This was because it had been found to inhibit prostaglandin formation, an action that might contribute to a prolonged pregnancy or labor, postpartum bleeding, and increased risk of perinatal death or low birth weight. More recently, drugs such as aspirin, that inhibit prostaglandin synthesis, have been used to treat premature labor and in clinical trials to control or prevent pre-eclampsia. Nursing mothers are still cautioned not to use aspirin because it is passed on to the infant and brings us back to the risk of Reyes Syndrome.
Do you have pre-existing medical conditions?
High doses of all three of these drugs over extended periods of time can cause damage to various parts of the body. Kidneys, stomach linings, livers can all be damaged by extensive use of these products. Existing damage to any of these organs can be increased by use of these drugs. However, the definition of "long term use" is 10-20 years.
As a little side note, don't be fooled by other OTC products that say they are all natural. Just because something is all natural does not mean it is safe. Marijuana is all natural and it destroys brain cells. I prefer to use natural and safe products before I use synthetic ones, but I always check with my doctor before taking anything. I have found that taking medications only when I really need them makes them more effective and I only have to take half the regular dose to get the same results.
Just because a product is available OTC does not automatically make it safe. Also, what is safe for one person may not be safe for you. Additionally, regular ingestion of any medication can impair its effectiveness. All medications should be taken sparingly and you should always consult your doctor before taking any new medication.
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