Side Effects -- Reducing Risk

If you take NSAIDs or acetaminophen, there are things you can do to reduce the risk of side effects.

Follow Recommended Dosage
Take over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers exactly as directed and never exceed the maximum dose per day. Take pain relievers in the lowest effective dose possible to control your symptoms.

If you end up taking the medication for more than 10 consecutive days, see your healthcare provider to discuss the safety of long-term use of this medication in your unique situation.

Read Labels Carefully
To minimize the risk of side effects and overdosing, carefully read the labels and follow the directions for all of your medications.

Remember that multisymptom cough, cold, flu, and sinus medications contain several ingredients, including analgesics. Be careful that you're not doubling up on your pain medication by taking your pain reliever along with a multisymptom medication that contains the same active ingredient as your pain reliever.

Other Precautions
Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist about other ways to minimize side effects, particularly if you take other medications or have medical conditions that increase your risk of side effects.

Taking NSAIDs with food or milk may help minimize minor stomach irritation. People at high risk of ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding who need to take NSAIDs as well may benefit from taking another medication designed to protect the stomach, such as a proton pump inhibitor, H2 blocker, or misoprostol.

Avoid alcohol when you are using NSAIDs or acetaminophen. The risk of liver damage with pain reliever use increases if you drink 3 or more alcoholic beverages per day.