Many kinds of medication containing NSAIDs or acetaminophen are available over-the-counter (OTC), but each has side effects that a user must consider before beginning treatment.

Acetaminophen

Short-term, occasional use of acetaminophen usually does not result in side effects. However, taking more than the safe and recommended dose of this medication can result in overdose side effects, including:

• Abdominal pain and swelling
• Upset stomach, nausea, and vomiting
• Appetite changes
• Liver damage

NSAIDs

Many people are able to take an occasional, low dose of NSAIDs without experiencing side effects. Taking high doses of NSAIDs, especially for a long period of time (10 days or more), increases the risk of side effects, which may include:

• Abdominal pain and swelling
• Upset stomach and vomiting
• Jitteriness
• Sleepiness
• Bloating and constipation
• Gastrointestinal bleeding, ulcers
• Increased bleeding
• Kidney, heart, or liver trouble
• Heart attack and stroke (rare)