Preventable Pain (NAPSA)—According to the American Pain Foundation, nine out of 10 Americansreport experiencing pain at least monthly; many, more frequently. Many people self-treat minor aches and pains with over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers. OTC medications make dealing with pain possible without a doctor’s prescription. Unfortunately, many people neglect to involve their doctors or pharmacists in their self-treating decisions and—since there are serious risks when mixing OTCs with prescription drugs, alcohol and dietary supplements—consumers may be cooking up a recipe for disaster. Thereality is OTC pain relievers can cause serious complications such as stomach bleeding, liver and kidney problems and ulcers; sometimes without warning. OTC painkillers come in two categories: non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and acetaminophen. NSAIDs include many common medicines (aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, and the brand-nameversionsof these). According to a recent National Consumers League (NCL) survey, NSAIDs are the pain reliever of choice of two-thirds of OTC users. These drugs work at the site of pain or injury to reduce inflammation and discomfort. The other kind of pain reliever, acetaminophen (Tylenol), does not reduce inflammation. It’s in most cold medications. Regardless of the medication pain sufferers choose, according to ae. / = u Consumers should be aware of risks before taking any drugs, even those available at the grocery or drug stores. the survey, they often do so without regard to possible side effects and interactions. Almost half of those who use OTC pain relievers knowingly take more than the recommended dose. Many ignorecritical label information: 16 percent admit to not reading the label at all. Experts say this behavior is risky but the results preventable. “Consumers don’t have to use a blindfold when choosing and using OTC pain medications. Safety information is included on labels for a reason,” says Linda Golodner, NCL president. “It’s critical for consumers to read the label completely and always take the recommended dose or follow a doctor’s instructions.” For more information, and a brochure, OTC Pain Meds: What Heips, What Hurts, call: 866-2162316 or visit www.nclnet.org/ote pain.
