Understanding Healthcare

Test Your Knowledge of OTC Pain Relievers

Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers can quickly relieve a headache, backache, cramps, and other aches and pains. But even though these medicines are readily available and inexpensive, you should take care whenever you use them or give them to a child. Take this quiz to see how much you know about OTC pain relievers.

1. OTC pain relievers are safe when taken as directed.


2. If the recommended dose of OTC pain reliever doesn't relieve your pain, it's safe to take more.


3. It's safe to take OTC pain relievers if you've been drinking alcohol.


4. Pain relievers should be taken every 4 hours.


5. Pain relievers should be taken with food and a full glass of water.


6. It's safe to give aspirin to children.


7. You shouldn't take ibuprofen if you've ever had an allergic reaction to aspirin.


Featured in

Author: Floria, Barbara

Online Medical Reviewer: Moe, Jimmy, MD

Online Medical Reviewer: Sather, Rita, RN

Online Medical Reviewer: Wojcik, Stacey, MBA, BSN

Date Last Reviewed: 05/01/2023

© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
user headset icon

Need Help? We're Here for You

Our Member and Recipient Services Team is here to help you understand your benefits, find care, or resolve concerns.

800-510-9132
quit smoking icon

Call NC Quitline

Need support to quit smoking, vaping, or to quit other nicotine products? You can receive support including medicines free of charge:

800-784-8669
car and bus icon

Schedule Transportation

Need transportation to a doctor's office, pharmacy, or other covered healthcare service? Contact us to arrange your ride.

800-510-9132
Stethoscope icon

Provider Directory

Need to find a provider like a Primary Care Physician, Specialist, OB/GYN, or a Psychiatrist? 

Provider Directory
Related Articles
Read article
Wellness
Roxicodone

Learn how Roxicodone works to relieve your pain, possible side effects to be aware of, and how to properly use and store this medication.

Read article
Wellness
Managing Chronic Pain with Over-the-Counter Medications

Over-the-counter medications can help manage chronic pain, but overuse can lead to some major health problems.

Read article
Wellness
Oxycontin

Learn how Oxycontin helps manage your pain, how to take and store it safely, and what to do if you experience side effects.

Read article
Wellness
Hydrocodone and Acetaminophen

Understand how Hydrocodone and Acetaminophen work to help you manage pain. Also, understand the possible side effects to be aware of and how to properly use and store these medications.