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what's your first otc medicament for a headache? (lemmy.ml)

submitted 2 months ago by sarah2653@lemmy.ml to c/asklemmy@lemmy.ml

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my first choice has always been an aspirin, but most of my coworkers tell me I'm wrong and I should use ibuprofen first.

What's your take?

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[–] linearchaos@lemmy.world 12 points 2 months ago

It depends on the cause, and your own biology.

Aspirin reduces pain signals but also reduces blood clotting, If your headache is from vasculature issues in and around your brain it's extra insurance.

Acetaminophen just reduces pain signals in the nervous system. It doesn't have any secondary advantageous effects but it is easier on your stomach.

Ibuprofen reduces pain signals and also as an anti-inflammatory. So if your headache is caused from minor swelling in the head it's the obvious choice.

I feel like at least in the US most people tend to overtake ibuprofen when they'd probably be better suited with Tylenol or aspirin.