Examples
|
| acetaminophen | Tylenol |
| aspirin | Bayer |
| ibuprofen | Advil, Motrin |
| naproxen | Aleve |
Stronger pain relievers are available by
prescription.
How It Works
These medicines reduce fever and
relieve pain associated with
sinusitis.
Why It Is Used
Analgesics may be used to reduce
fever and relieve headache, toothache, and facial pain caused by infection,
inflammation, or congestion in the sinuses.
How Well It Works
Analgesics are helpful in reducing
fever and relieving pain caused by sinusitis.
Side Effects
All medicines have side effects. But many people don't feel the side effects, or they are able to deal with them. Ask your pharmacist about the side effects of each medicine you take. Side effects are also listed in the information that comes with your medicine.
Here are some important things to think about:
- Usually the benefits of the medicine are more important than any minor side effects.
- Side effects may go away after you take the medicine for a while.
- If side effects still bother you and you wonder if you should keep taking the medicine, call your doctor. He or she may be able to lower your dose or change your medicine. Do not suddenly quit taking your medicine unless your doctor tells you to.
Call 911 or other emergency services right away if you have:
- Trouble breathing.
- Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Call your doctor if you have:
- Hives
- Yellowing of the eyes or skin.
- Stomach cramps or pain.
- Diarrhea.
- Blood in your stools, or you are vomiting blood.
Do not give aspirin to anyone under age 20 because of the
risk of
Reye syndrome.
See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is
not available in all systems.)
What To Think About
Aspirin and other medicines that reduce
inflammation may not be recommended for people who have
asthma because they are known to trigger asthma
attacks in some people.
These medicines should be used carefully
in people who have liver disease, kidney disease, or heart disease or who have an
alcohol-use problem.
People who are taking medicines to prevent
blood clots should talk with their doctor before using these
medicines.
Taking medicine
Medicine is one of the many tools your doctor has to treat a health problem. Taking medicine as your doctor suggests will improve your health and may prevent future problems. If you don't take your medicines properly, you may be putting your health (and perhaps your life) at risk.
There are many reasons why people have trouble taking their medicine. But in most cases, there is something you can do. For suggestions on how to work around common problems, see the topic Taking Medicines as Prescribed.
Advice for women
If you are pregnant, breast-feeding, or planning to get pregnant, do not use any medicines unless your doctor tells you to. Some medicines can harm your baby. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, herbs, and supplements. And make sure that all your doctors know that you are pregnant, breast-feeding, or planning to get pregnant.
Checkups
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
Complete the new medication information form (PDF)(What is a PDF document?) to help you understand this medication.
Credits
| By | Healthwise Staff |
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| Primary Medical Reviewer | Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine |
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| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Donald R. Mintz, MD - Otolaryngology |
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| Last Revised | September 12, 2012 |
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