Which Pain Reliever is Best for Headaches?
Finding the Right Painkiller for a Headache can be Difficult.
Jul 16, 2009
There are many factors in determining which pain reliever will work best for a headache. What type of headache is it? What general type of pain killer should be used? What dosage? And so on. This article will attempt to provide at least a basic guideline.
What Types of OTC Pain Relievers are Available?
There are two main varieties of pain reliever available over the counter, meaning no prescription is needed to get them. One is acetaminophen (like Tylenol), and the other is NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Thus, if it isn't acetaminophen, it's most likely an NSAID, including aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen sodium, and ketoprofen. Some even combine the two varieties.
Acetaminophen works by affecting the parts of the brain that register pain signals sent from the body's nerves, as well as helping to regulate the body's internal temperature.
NSAIDs, on the other hand, appear to reduce the level of certain substances the body produces, similar to hormones, called prostaglandins, which cause pain sensations by irritating nerve endings, and also help to regulate the internal temperature of the body.
What Type of Headache is Being Treated?
Understanding what is causing a headache can often provide a clue as to what the most effective treatment might be. If it is a migraine, something which also contains caffeine may be the best choice. If it is due to pulled or strained muscles in the neck, an NSAID could suit best, due to their anti-inflammatory properties.
Benefits of Various Pain Relievers
Each OTC pain reliever has different benefits associated with it.
- Acetaminophen - Works on the brain, instead of within the body, so is effective for a broad range of complaints. It is the best choice for children with fever, as there is no risk of Reye's Syndrome. It is the only common OTC pain reliever that won't irritate the stomach. Some studies indicate it may be the most effective at reducing fever. It does not thin the blood.
- Aspirin - One of the oldest and most well known pain relievers, an extract of Willow bark. Works faster than nearly any other OTC pain killer, especially when combined with caffeine. Only pain reliever shown to reduce risk of heart attack.
- Ibuprofen - Very similar to aspirin, except somewhat stronger, making it useful for more acute pain or inflammation. Usually recommended for reducing inflammation post-surgery.
- Naproxen Sodium - Lasts longer than other pain killers, 8-12 hours. Until fairly recently, it was available only with a prescription; because of this, some people who have become resistant to the effects of other OTC painkillers may find relief with naproxen.
Possible Side Effects of OTC Pain Killers
Each of the OTC pain relievers have certain possible side effects to keep in mind when selecting one.
- Acetaminophen - Damages the liver; according to the National Institute of Health (NIH), "Acetaminophen overdose is one of the most common poisonings worldwide." Does not reduce inflammation like NSAIDs.
- Aspirin - Thins the blood, therefore a poor choice for those with low blood pressure or open wounds. Never to be used for children with fever, as it can cause Reye's Syndrome. Can cause stomach irritation or damage the kidneys.
- Ibuprofen - May cause ulceration in the stomach or intestines in sufficient quantities, and reduce blood flow to the kidneys. Reduces the blood's ability to clot.
- Naproxen - Relatively easy to overdose, which can cause future sensitivity. Like other NSAIDs, can cause stomach upset, including severe.
So Which OTC Pain Reliever is the Best for Headaches?
Unfortunately, it mostly comes down to a matter of personal preference. There are groups who consider each of the four major OTC painkillers the best for treating headaches. This is not just unfounded "opinion"; according to Dr. Joel Saper, director of the Michigan Pain and Neurological Institute, "There is an honest justification for having different drugs on the market to treat the same condition because different people respond differently to different drugs. That's a fact; it's a clinical truth."
Aspirin works faster; naproxen lasts longer; acetaminophen works on the brain instead of the body; ibuprofen is arguably the strongest. In the end, one has to simply try each of them and find out which works best for the individual and the type of headache.
Also, check out these natural tips and tricks to prevent and naturally relieve headaches.
As always, if pain is acute or last longer than 3-5 days, seek a medical professional. This article is meant purely for informational purposes, and in no way constitutes medical advice.
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