The following over-the-counter painkillers are effective for treating headaches:
- Aspirin
- Ibuprofen (commonly known as Advil or Motrin IB)
- Naproxen Sodium (commonly known as Aleve)
Understanding Combination Medications
Often, you'll find that some headache medications combine different active ingredients. These combination medications might include:
- Aspirin combined with acetaminophen (Tylenol).
- Either aspirin or acetaminophen may be combined with caffeine or a sedative.
These combination medicines may be more effective than those containing only a single ingredient.
Summary of Options
| Painkiller | Common Brand Names | Key Information |
|---|---|---|
| Aspirin | (Various) | Effective for headache relief, often combined with other ingredients. |
| Ibuprofen | Advil, Motrin IB | Commonly used, readily available over-the-counter. |
| Naproxen Sodium | Aleve | Another common over-the-counter option. |
| Combination Meds | (Various) | May include aspirin, acetaminophen, caffeine, or a sedative; sometimes more effective than single-ingredient options. |
It is important to note that it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice on the best painkiller for your specific headache type and condition.
