The outpouring of over-the-counter pain relievers (analgesics) in recent years has been tremendous. While it's nice to have so many options, selecting the right pain reliever can be a pain in itself!

To help you choose, we've summarized the different drugs available, who should take them and what to watch out for. Remember: always call your doctor for advice before taking a pain medication you're not sure about.

Aspirin / Salicylic Acid (Anacin, Bayer, Bufferin, Ecotrin, Excedrin)

Works by inhibiting prostaglandins (substances involved in the body's response to injury, temperature regulation, blood vessel constriction and blood clotting). Relieves mild to moderate aches and pains, and reduces fever and blood clotting. Also used in heart attack and stroke prevention (consult your physician). Not safe for those with asthma, ulcers, bleeding disorders, liver/kidney disease or uncontrolled high blood pressure. Teens and children should avoid using aspirin for chickenpox or flu, because it may be associated with Reye's Syndrome, a rare, possibly fatal disorder.

Acetaminophen (Tylenol, some Excedrin products)

Raises the body's ability to handle pain; exactly how it works is not completely understood. As effective as aspirin for fever and moderate pain, but easier on the stomach. Not as effective for sprains, muscle strains and other soft tissue injuries. Safe for children.

Aspirin/Acetaminophen with Caffeine (some Anacin and Excedrin products)

Caffeine enhances the pain-relief effect of aspirin and acetaminophen, especially for some migraine sufferers. Caffeine-sensitive people should avoid these products, since two tablets can have the same effect as taking the pain reliever with a cup of coffee.

Ibuprofen* (Advil, Motrin)

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) which inhibits prostaglandins. Stronger and lasts 6-8 hours longer than aspirin. Better than aspirin for menstrual cramps, toothaches, minor arthritis and injuries with inflammation.

Naproxen Sodium* (Aleve)

NSAID similar to ibuprofen, but with a longer duration of effectiveness. Not appropriate for children. Older adults (over 65) should limit their intake to one tablet every 12 hours.

Ketoprofen* (Orudis KT, Actron)

NSAID that claims to relieve pain faster. Not appropriate for children.

* Notes on NSAIDs:
Though NSAIDs interfere less with blood clotting than aspirin, they are not recommended for people with bleeding disorders. Always take NSAID's with food and plenty of water; do not take them at night. NSAID's should not be taken if you have high blood pressure or kidney disease, or if you are taking aspirin, diuretics, digoxin, warfarin, probenecid, methotrexate or lithium.

General Precautions

The following individuals should consult their doctor before taking any analgesic medication: pregnant women, nursing mothers, heavy drinkers (three or more alcoholic drinks per day), or sufferers of asthma, ulcers, liver/kidney disease, high blood pressure or bleeding disorders.
Pain relievers are intended for short-term relief of symptoms (maximum of three consecutive days for reducing fever, ten days for pain relief). Call your doctor if symptoms persist and before using these medications long-term.