Bayer (Aspirin) Drug Information: Medication Guide and Patient Information

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May 25, 2012

Aspirin

Types of Pain Medications »

For what conditions are pain medications used?

Virtually any disease as well as most injuries and surgical procedures involve some degree of pain. It's not surprising, then, that pain medications, also known as analgesics, are among the most commonly used drugs in the U.S. Pain can range from minor, acute complaints, such as a muscle sprain, to chronic, severe pain, such as that sometimes experienced by cancer patients. Some drugs used for other conditions also are effective at relieving certain types of pain. These drugs include certain drugs used for depression, epilepsy, and anxiety.

What are the differences among the types of pain medications?

Pain medications can be broadly classified into two categories: prescription and nonprescription. In the latter category are several mild anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen, naproxen), as well as acetaminophen. These are mainly meant for use with short-term, acute pain -- menstrual cramps,...

Read the Types of Pain Medications article »

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PATIENT INFORMATION

Alcohol warning: If you consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks every day, ask your doctor whether you should take aspirin or other pain relievers/fever reducers. Aspirin may cause stomach bleeding.

Do not use if you are allergic to aspirin or any other pain reliever/fever reducer

Ask a doctor before use if you have:

stomach problems (such as heartburn, upset stomach, or stomach pain) that last or come back
bleeding problems
ulcers
asthma

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before use if you are taking a prescription drug for:

anticoagulation (blood thinning)
gout
diabetes
arthritis

Stop use and ask a doctor if:

an allergic reaction occurs. Seek medical help right away.
pain gets worse or lasts more than 10 days
redness or swelling is present
fever lasts more than 3 days
new symptoms occur
ringing in the ears or loss of hearing occurs

If pregnant or breast-feeding, ask a health professional before use. It is especially important not to use aspirin during the last 3 months of pregnancy unless definitely directed to do so by a doctor because it may cause problems in the unborn child or complications during delivery.

Keep out of reach of children. In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away.

Last reviewed on RxList: 11/13/2007
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.