The Dangers of Over-the-Counter Pain Medication - INFOGRAPHIC

Debra Murray

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It cannot be denied that over-the-counter pain medications are convenient. No doctor trips required. No prescriptions needed. These drugs can be found in almost any drugstore or supermarket. However, the most convenient option does not always mean the safest option. Below, you’ll find a list of the dangers that are associated with over-the-counter pain medications along with some replacement natural remedies.

The Effect on Your Heart

The improper use of ibuprofen blocks two important enzymes. Blocking these enzymes causes a gradual increase in blood pressure, which in turn causes inflammation and pain. Ibuprofen is actually associated with a 3x greater risk of stroke.

The Consequences of Mixing Drugs

You have the flu and have taken medicine to bring down your fever; however, you want something more to reduce the aches and pains, so you reach for an OTC pain killer. Sound familiar? In situations like this, you are putting yourself at risk for an accidental overdose. Acetaminophen, one of the most common OTC pain relievers, is responsible for more than 56,000 emergency room visits per year.

The Effect on Your Stomach

Some of the major side effects of these medications relate to how it affects a person’s gastrointestinal system. The side effects range from an upset stomach to a peptic ulcer. It is important to not ignore your symptoms. About 1/2 of the world’s chronic NSAID users have some gastrointestinal ulcer due to the medication.

The Effect on Your Liver

If a person consumes too much pain medication, they have the potential to damage their liver. Whether it is frequent intervals or irregular large doses, you are putting your liver at risk. Liver damage can occur after taking 4 or 5 extra-strength pills containing acetaminophen within 24 hours.

The Effect on Your Kidneys

Taking large doses of aspirin or other pain medications may reduce kidney functions. For people with kidney disease, using these medications may increase the tendency to bleed. Even if you have healthy kidneys, when these medications are used improperly, they can have harmful effects on kidney tissue and structures due to reduced blood flow. In fact, 8-10% of all cases of kidney disease in the U.S. are caused from acetaminophen ingestion.

Addiction to Over the Counter Medicine

All drugs have a potential for addiction, including these medications. Some people cannot give up the feeling of euphoria that they bring. Some people can also build a tolerance to their dosage, so they have to take a larger amount to have an effect. The body gets used to these substances and becomes physically dependent. However, topical methods significantly reduce the potential for addiction as they do not lead to the absorption of the most active drug through the digestive system. This helps reduce side effects and other complications. About 80,000 people visit the emergency room for acetaminophen overdose per year.

Get Relief the Natural Way

Instead of putting yourself at risk, try these natural remedies for pain. Whether it is through consumption or physical application, each of these remedies can help to reduce pain and inflammation. You may be surprised that natural solutions can help an ache or pain without the risk of harmful side effects.

• Willow bark
• Emu oil
• Turmeric
• Cloves
• Acupuncture
• Heat & Ice

With Convenience Comes Responsibility

Failure to take the proper dosage for these ingestible, over-the-counter pain medications could result in allergic reactions, addictions and failing organs. Why put your body at risk at all? There are numerous natural solutions that will reduce pain while simultaneously helping other parts of your body.

About BLUESPRING

BLUESPRING strives to help resolve pain relief for its consumers through physical activities and natural remedies. While ingestible pills can have dangerous, lasting effects, our OTC creams do not. Trying our creams, such as Super Blue Stuff OTC or Super White Stuff OTC, will help relieve pain greatly without inviting more pain into your body.  

Pills and liquids are all ingested, which causes strain on the digestive system. Our cream is completely different from the use of pills and liquids as it provides targeted relief while protecting your body from unwanted side effects and complications. Not only do these products relieve your pain in the moment, but they help prevent pain in the future.