Over-the-Counter Pain Medications: What Helps, What Hurts

Every day millions of consumers turn to over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications for temporary relief of pain from headaches, colds, muscular ache, and arthritis, and to reduce fever. While these medications are largely safe when taken according to label directions, there are risks when taking any drug. Just because a medication is available on the shelf of your local grocery or discount store does not make it any safer than a drug that has been prescribed by your doctor.

The National Consumers League has launched a project to educate consumers about the risks of OTC pain medications.

The Facts

Answers to Your Questions about OTC Pain Medications

Know Your Personal Risk Factors

Checklist

OTC Meds Resources on the Web

NCL's New OTC Pain Med Brochure: What Helps, What Hurts

Order a copy toll-free (866-216-2316) or request a copy

OTC Pain Meds Fact Sheet

For the Media

Jan 30 Release: New Survey Reveals Uninformed Consumers Taking Dangerous Risks with OTC Painkillers

Harris Survey Results: Executive Summary

Harris Report (PowerPoint)

Questionnaire

Click here to request a copy of the complete survey

Oct. 23, 2002 Press Release: Consumers Unaware of Medicine Cabinet Dangers

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