PlainMeds guide, sources read October 8, 2026
Pain relievers compared
Four medicines carry most over-the-counter pain relief in the U.S.: acetaminophen, ibuprofen, naproxen and aspirin. Their labels warn about different harms: the liver for acetaminophen, bleeding for the three NSAIDs, and Reye's syndrome in children for aspirin.
How do the four compare on the record?
| Medicine | Generic labelers | Pharmacy cost | Boxed warning | Recalls |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acetaminophen | 89 labelers | $0.0339 per unit | Yes | 19 |
| Ibuprofen | 245 labelers | $0.0573 per tablet | Yes | 40 |
| Naproxen | 139 labelers | $0.0565 per tablet | Yes | 8 |
| Aspirin | none listed | $0.0142 per tablet | No | 1 |
Source: FDA NDC Directory, CMS NADAC, FDA Enforcement Report via openFDA
What do their labels warn about?
Acetaminophen labelWarnings Liver warning This product contains acetaminophen. Severe liver damage may occur if you take more than 6 caplets in 24 hours, which is the maximum daily amount with other drugs containing acetaminophen 3 or more alcoholic drinks every day while using this product Allergy alert: acetaminophen may cause severe skin reactions.
Ibuprofen labelStomach bleeding warning: This product contains an NSAID, which may cause severe stomach bleeding. The chance is higher if you: ■ are age 60 or older ■ have had stomach ulcers or bleeding problems ■ ake a blood thinning (anticoagulant) or steroid drug ■ take other drugs containing prescription or nonprescription NSAIDs (aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, or others) ■ have 3 or more alcoholic drinks every day while using this product ■ take more or for a longer time than directed Heart attack and stroke warning: NSAIDs except aspirin increase the risk of heart attack, heart failure, and stroke.
Naproxen labelSymptoms may Include: hives facial swelling asthma (wheezing) shock skin reddening rash blisters If an allergic reaction occurs, stop use and seek medical help right away Stomach bleeding warning: This product contains an NSAID, which may cause severe stomach bleeding. The chance is higher if you: are age 60 or older have had stomach ulcers or bleeding problems take a blood thinning (anticoagulant) or steroid drug take other drugs containing prescription or nonprescription NSAIDs (aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, or others) have 3 or more alcoholic drinks every day while using this product take m
Aspirin labelReye's syndrome: Children and teenagers who have or are recovering from chicken pox or flu-like symptoms should not use this product. When using this product, if changes in behavior with nausea and vomiting occur, consult a doctor because these symptoms could be an early sign of Reye's syndrome, a rare but serious illness.
These are the labels' own words, from the label each record quotes. Read the whole label for your product: strengths and forms differ, and many cold and flu products contain one of these medicines too.
Source: FDA drug labels via openFDA