What is an Anti-Inflammatory Medication?
Anti-inflammatory medications reduce swelling, pain, and stiffness by blocking chemicals in the body that cause inflammation. These are commonly used for menopausal joint pain, headaches, and muscle aches.
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Difference Between Common Pain Medications
Medication | How It Works | Best For | Common Brands |
|---|---|---|---|
Aspirin (NSAID) | Pain relief + blood thinner (reduces clotting) | Headaches, mild pain, heart protection | Aspirine Protect, Aspro |
Diclofenac (NSAID, stronger than ibuprofen) | Reduces inflammation and swelling, available as pills or gel | Arthritis, back pain, joint pain | Voltaren Gel, Diclofenac |
Ibuprofen (NSAID - Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug) | Similar to ibuprofen but lasts longer (up to 12 hours) | More intense joint pain, migraines, or period pain | Aleve, Naproxen |
Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) | Reduces inflammation and pain by blocking COX enzymes | Menopausal joint pain, muscle aches, cramps, headaches | Advil, Nurofen, Ibuprofen |
Difference Between Common Pain Medications
| Blocks pain signals in the brain but does not reduce inflammation | Mild pain, fever, headaches | Panadol, Paracetamol |
Which One Should You Use for Menopause Symptoms?
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For general pain relief (mild headaches, mild joint pain) → Paracetamol
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For inflammation-related pain (joint pain, muscle pain, menstrual cramps) → Ibuprofen or Naproxen
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For strong muscle/joint pain or arthritis → Diclofenac (oral or gel)
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For migraine or severe headaches → Naproxen
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For heart protection + mild pain relief → Aspirin (only if recommended by your doctor)
What to Watch Out For
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Paracetamol: Safe, but too much can damage the liver. Stick to the recommended dose.
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NSAIDs (Ibuprofen, Naproxen, Diclofenac, Aspirin): Can cause stomach irritation, so take them with food. Long-term use may increase the risk of stomach ulcers and high blood pressure.
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Aspirin: Avoid if you have bleeding disorders or stomach ulcers.
Natural Anti-Inflammatory (pain reliever) Alternatives
If you prefer non-medication options, try:
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Turmeric (Curcumin): Natural anti-inflammatory, can help with joint pain.
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Omega-3 (Fish Oil): Supports joint and heart health.
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Magnesium Supplements: Helps with muscle pain, cramps, and sleep issues.
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Ginger: Natural pain reliever, especially for muscle and joint pain.
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Heat Therapy: Heating pads or warm baths (even with magnesium salts) can relax muscles and improve circulation.