Best OTC Choices in Oral Pain Relievers, Adult

Products that adults can take orally to relieve pain include tablets, geltabs and powders, with both man-made and natural active ingredients.

All types are represented in Money’s picks for the best over-the-counter adult oral pain relievers. 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
#4
Aleve Liquid Gels Naproxen
  • Capsules
  • Lasts 12 hours
  • Safe for people 12 years and older
#3
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
#5
BC Powder Aspirin Caffeine
  • Relieves minor aches and pains
  • Safe for people 12 years and older
  • Can take up to every 6 hours
  • Can mix into liquid or sprinkle on tongue
#7
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
#8
Hyland's Arnica Montana Arnica montana
  • Homeopathic
  • Quick dissolving tablets
  • Safe for people 6 years and older
#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
#6
Voltaren Diclofenac
  • Topical
  • Non-greasy
  • Can use up to 4 times a day
  • Arthritis pain relief
No results match.
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