Learn More: Pain Relief
Side Effects
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)






