031 – Choosing the Safest Over-the-Counter Painkiller in Aging

In This Episode:

Dr. K explains which over-the-counter (OTC) painkiller is usually safest, and which analgesics are much riskier than people realize. She covers:

• Why frequent aches and pains should always be evaluated by a doctor
• Why harm from OTC painkillers is surprisingly common
• Why acetaminophen (known as paracetamol outside the U.S.) is usually considered the safest OTC analgesic for older adults
• Why non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen are on the Beer’s List of medications older adults should avoid or use with caution
• The most common risks and side-effects of OTC painkillers, and how to avoid them
• The special case of aspirin, which doctors no longer recommend as a painkiller
• Tips on selecting an OTC painkiller and on working with your doctor to treat frequent pain in aging

Related article: 

How to Choose the Safest Over-the-Counter Painkiller for Seniors

Related Resources:

• How to Identify Risky Medications for Older Adults
• The 2015 American Geriatrics Society Updated Beers Criteria: Medications that Older Adults Should Avoid or Use with Caution
• Experts Urge Sparing Use of Nonaspirin Painkillers (NSAIDs)
• Daily aspirin therapy: Understand the benefits and risks
• 7 Common Brain-Toxic Drugs Seniors Should Use With Caution