Pain Relievers
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Pain Relievers for Headaches
Reduce the discomfort of headaches, sore muscles and arthritis with pain relievers from CVS. These over-the-counter medications can provide fast and effective relief from everyday aches and pains, helping you feel more comfortable.
How Do Painkillers Know Where the Pain Is?
When you experience an injury, your immune system activates at the site to commence repairs. White blood cells that move into the area increase the production of chemicals, called prostaglandins, as part of a protective and reparative process that leads to inflammation and pain. This acts as a signal for you to take it easy for the next few days and avoid causing further harm.
Most common painkillers, such as naproxen, don't specifically target the area where pain occurs. These medications reduce the concentration of prostaglandins and other pain-inducing chemicals throughout your body by blocking the enzyme your body uses to make them. If it feels like they're targeting the injury directly, it's because most of the chemicals causing the pain are being produced locally at the site of the damage.
However, certain medicines, such as stomach pain relievers, typically work more directly by helping reduce digestive system spasms or slowing the production of stomach acid that causes heartburn. You can also apply topical painkillers directly to muscles or joints for targeted relief and fewer systemic side effects.
What Pain Relievers Are Not NSAIDs?
Many painkillers fall into the category known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen, aspirin and naproxen. Because of their powerful ability to help reduce inflammation, these medicines often make the most effective muscle and back pain relievers. However, some people are sensitive to side effects, and it may not be okay to take NSAIDs if you're already on certain medications, such as blood thinners.
One excellent alternative is acetaminophen, found in products such as Tylenol. This pain reliever isn't as effective for conditions with a lot of inflammation, but it can still work wonders for joint pain, headaches, toothaches and many other ailments.
Certain prescription pain medicines, such as opiates and gabapentin, also aren't NSAIDs. These medications are generally only prescribed for severe pain after surgeries or to treat nerve pain from conditions such as shingles.
What Pain Relievers Can I Take While Pregnant?
It's generally best to avoid taking any painkillers during pregnancy if possible. For situations where you really need relief, it's usually okay to take acetaminophen for short periods, as this medication isn't known to cause harm to your baby's development. However, you should always discuss the use of any medication during pregnancy with your doctor beforehand.
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