Over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications are generally safe and effective, but daily or long-term use isn’t recommended. Several factors, including drug side effects and your medical history, can ...

Common OTC painkillers like ibuprofen may increase heart attack and stroke risk. Learn which medications pose the greatest ...

When hit with a headache or fever, people often reach for over-the-counter painkillers like acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) as their first line of defense. Used ...

Dr. Portenoy answers the question: 'Over-The-Counter Pain Relievers Harmful?' — -- Question: Can Over-The-Counter Pain Relievers Be Harmful, And Are They Safer Than Other Drugs (Narcotics)?

Over-the-counter pain relievers can provide short-term relief for issues like headaches and muscle aches, but should not be used for more than a few days without consulting a doctor. It’s important to ...

When hit with a headache or fever, people often reach for over-the-counter painkillers like acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) as their first line of defense. Used ...

This story was originally published on April 18, 2025, and has been updated. On Monday, President Trump announced that the Food and Drug Administration would be discouraging the use of acetaminophen ...