For Immediate Release
	December 17, 2002
	Contact: Carol McKay
	202-835-3323
	media@nclnet.org

Holiday Stress Leading to Ho-Ho-Headaches? Better Think Twice When Reaching for OTC Painkillers  

National Consumers League Warns Consumers about the Risks of Common Pain Medications: New Free Brochure at 866-216-2316

Washington, DC – Long lines, overspent budgets, and increased emotional stress will contribute to aches and pains for many consumers this holiday season. But the National Consumers League, the nation’s oldest consumer advocacy organization, says consumers should know about the risks of the OTC pain medications they choose to alleviate holiday pains before they take them. NCL has published a new free brochure, OTC Pain Meds: What Helps, What Hurts, which is available by calling a toll-free hotline, 866-216-2316.

During the holiday season, aches and pains can quickly become too much to endure and may lead many to rely on OTC pain relievers to ease conditions such as arthritis and headaches without considering the side effects. Many consumers take these medicines unaware that some can cause serious complications such as gastrointestinal ulcers. In fact, some OTC pain relievers can increase the risk for stomach bleeding by as much as 2-3 times and account for more than 16,500 deaths and 103,000 hospitalizations in the U.S. each year. According to a survey commissioned by NCL, less than one in four respondents was aware that some OTC medications can cause serious adverse reactions.

Increased alcohol intake can also cause serious problems for consumers who consistently use OTC meds to treat common pains or colds. Some painkillers may cause liver problems when taken with alcohol, and since alcohol irritates the stomach lining, drinking it while taking anti-inflammatories can be disastrous.

“It is essential to know that OTC pain relievers carry risks as well as benefits,” says NCL President Linda Golodner. “Just because OTC pain relievers can be found on store shelves doesn’t necessarily mean they are risk-free.” This season, consumers can take an active role in preventing serious health complications by understanding the risks associated with OTC pain relievers. NCL offers tips on how to avoid unnecessary hospitalizations and fatalities:

·        Involve a doctor or pharmacist in the selection of OTC medicines. If you drink three or more alcoholic beverages each day, talk to your doctor to determine what pain medication is right for you.

·        Read and follow the directions on the label.

·        Understand the risks involved as well as the benefits.

·        Know your own personal risk factors, such as age and medical history, when taking OTC pain medications.

“We want this season to be happy and safe for everyone,” adds Golodner. To treat aches and pains wisely, consumers can call 866-216-2316 to request a free brochure.

The National Consumers League, founded in 1899, is America's pioneer consumer organization. Its mission is to identify, protect, represent, and advance the economic and social interests of consumers and workers. NCL is a private, nonprofit membership organization. For more information, visit www.nclnet.org/otcpain

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