Best OTC Drugs 2024

Best OTC Choices in Headache Products

Products that purport to relieve headache include those with the familiar pain-killing ingredients — ibuprofen, acetaminophen, aspirin and the like — along with some that contain natural ingredients.

All types are represented in Money’s picks for the best over-the-counter headache remedies. The selections were made by drugs.com, using a methodology that combines expert assessment with analysis of online reviews, ratings and other customer data.

The information provided on Money.com is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The products featured may not be right for everyone and may carry risk even if available without a prescription. Read the product’s label and consult with a professional for individual medical advice.

Slide Table to Compare
Rank
Medication
Active Ingredients
Important Points
#1
Advil Liqui-Gels Ibuprofen
  • Safe for people 12 years and older
  • Can take up to every 4 hours
  • Fast pain or fever relief
  • Can cause stomach upset
#3
Aleve caplets Naproxen
  • Lasts up to 12 hours
  • Tablets
  • Safe for people 12 years and older
  • Can cause stomach upset
#8
Bayer Aspirin Safety Coated Tablets Aspirin
  • Safe for people 12 years and older
  • Can take up to every 4 hours
  • Fast pain or fever relief
  • Coated to reduce stomach upset
#4
BC Powder Aspirin Caffeine
  • Relieves minor aches and pains
  • Safe for people 12 years and older
  • Can take up to every 6 hours
  • Must mix into liquid
#6
Excedrin Tension Headache Acetaminophen Caffeine
  • Safe for people 12 years and older
  • Can take up to every 6 hours
  • Relieves headache and muscle aches
#5
Goody's Powder Acetaminophen Aspirin
  • Relieves minor aches and pains
  • Safe for people 12 years and older
  • Can take up to every 6 hours
  • Must mix into liquid or spinkle on tongue
#9
Hyland's Headache Relief Tablets Belladonna Gelsemium sempervirens Ipecacuanha Iris versicolor
  • Safe for people 12 years and older
  • Homeopathic
  • Dissolvable tablets
#7
Motrin IB Liquid Gels Ibuprofen
  • Safe for people 12 years and older
  • Can take up to every 4 hours
  • Fast pain or fever relief
  • Can cause stomach upset
#2
Tylenol Rapid Release Gels Acetaminophen
  • Safe for people 12 years and older
  • Can take up to every 6 hours
  • Fast pain or fever relief
No results match.
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Featured drugs are available without a prescription in the U.S. and may not be available with or without a prescription in other locations.