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A MyFibroTeam Member asked a question 💭
Austin, TX

Are there any over the counter pain relievers that don't harm your stomach lining?
I've been taking NSAID's like Advil, Alene, tylenol since 14 and I'm now 22 and I'm starting to have bad stomach pain when I take them.
I'd really like to try something else that isn't so harsh on the stomach
Any suggestions?
-thanks!

March 9, 2017
 · 
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Answer Summary

Members responded to someone seeking alternatives to NSAIDs after experiencing stomach pain, with several clarifying that Tylenol is not an... Read more

Members responded to someone seeking alternatives to NSAIDs after experiencing stomach pain, with several clarifying that Tylenol is not an NSAID and is gentler on the stomach, though it should not be overused due to potential liver effects. Many members shared practical strategies they use personally, including taking omeprazole or similar stomach protectors daily, using Voltaren topical cream which has minimal stomach absorption, trying paracetamol with codeine for pain without inflammation, eating before taking any medication, and considering slippery elm to support stomach lining. A recurring theme was the importance of consulting a doctor or pharmacist, especially since one member shared a cautionary story about developing GERD and a gastric ulcer from years of NSAID use that required lifelong medication and complete avoidance of NSAIDs.

A MyFibroTeam Member

@A MyFibroTeam Member I agree with @A MyFibroTeam Member. You should be able to take @ Tylenol. I took so much @ Ibuprofen (an NSAID) for pain for so many years, then recently kept feeling like no matter how much I ate, I felt like I was completely empty! Well I had an endoscopy ordered by my Gastroenterologist, and it showed lesions (sore spots) in my esophogus & the opening to my stomach. I was diagnosed with GERD, aka, Acid Reflux DISEASE. Also, about 1 1/2 years before that, I had an endoscopy because I felt like I had a lump down below my throat inside.... the endoscopy showed a gastric ulcer (stomach ulcer) which the doc said, left UNtreated could cause it to eat through the stomach wall & cause life threatening bleeding! Yikes, I didn't know a stomach ulcer could be that dangerous. Anyway. if you are having unusual symptoms or pain, etc... you should have your doc check that out for you, just in case. Not to scare you, but just be aware of your symptoms. I can not ever take NSAIDS again & am on medication for life. God bless. ☺Susan

March 9, 2017 (edited)
A MyFibroTeam Member

I have to take omeprazole 2x a day due to constant use of meds. Esophagitis and gastritis. First time I had to take a stomach med I was 16. Now without I'd feel so empty and pained.

March 9, 2017
A MyFibroTeam Member

Tylenol is not a NSAID. It is an analgesic (anti-pain) and an antipyretic (anti-fever). The only side effect you can get is hepatotoxicity, and it can only happen if overused. The limit when taken chronically is 2600-3000mg per day (while you can go up to 4000mg when only used occasionally). As for the others you've mentionned (aleve and advil) they are anti-inflammatory drugs (+ analgesic and antipyretic), which can cause side effects such as the stomach pain you've experienced. This is why it is important to take these medications while eating. I hope this helps, but you can still speak about that with your doctor or your pharmacist.

March 9, 2017
A MyFibroTeam Member

Slippery elm is good for stumic lining. I have to take when I am on sting pain med or even Panadol.

March 10, 2017
A MyFibroTeam Member

Take an omperazole each day. They are to protect your stomach x

March 10, 2017

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