OTC Anti-Inflammatory Guide: What Works and How to Use It Safely

Got a sprain, sore muscle, or a painful headache? Over-the-counter (OTC) anti-inflammatories can help fast. The common ones are ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), and low-dose aspirin. These drugs reduce swelling and pain by blocking inflammation pathways. They work well for muscle aches, menstrual cramps, toothaches, and minor arthritis flare-ups.

How much should you take? For adults, ibuprofen is usually 200–400 mg every 4–6 hours as needed (don’t exceed 1,200 mg/day without a doctor). Naproxen sodium OTC is 220 mg every 8–12 hours (don’t exceed 660 mg/day). Aspirin for pain is often 325–650 mg every 4–6 hours, but many people use lower-dose aspirin for heart protection—ask your doctor before mixing uses. Always follow the label and use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time.

Oral vs topical: pick the right form

Topical options like diclofenac gel (Voltaren) or ibuprofen creams deliver medicine straight to the sore spot. They’re great for localized joint or muscle pain and usually cause fewer stomach and heart side effects than pills. Use a thin layer on clean skin, and don’t cover with tight bandages unless the label allows it. If pain is spread out or you need systemic relief, oral NSAIDs work better.

Remember: acetaminophen (Tylenol) relieves pain and fever but is not an anti-inflammatory. It’s a reasonable choice if you can’t take NSAIDs due to stomach, kidney, or heart issues, but it won’t reduce swelling.

Safety tips and when to see a doctor

NSAIDs can irritate the stomach, raise blood pressure, affect kidney function, and in some people slightly increase heart attack or stroke risk—especially with long-term use. Don’t combine multiple NSAIDs (for example, ibuprofen plus naproxen) and avoid mixing NSAIDs with blood thinners unless a clinician says it’s okay. If you have kidney disease, heart disease, a history of ulcers, or take blood thinners, check with your doctor first.

Pregnant? Avoid NSAIDs in the third trimester and talk to your provider before taking them at any stage. For children, use age- and weight-based dosing from the label or ask a pediatrician. Stop and call a doctor if you notice black stools, severe stomach pain, sudden swelling, shortness of breath, chest pain, or if pain doesn’t improve after a few days.

Want to reduce reliance on pills? Try ice for the first 48 hours after an injury, then heat for tight muscles. Gentle movement, stretching, and physical therapy help long-term. OTC anti-inflammatories are useful tools when used carefully—keep doses low, read labels, and ask a clinician if you’re unsure.