Avoid Overdosing on Pain Medication

An over-the-counter pain reliever can offer relief from common aches and pains, but it's important not to exceed the dose recommended on the label.

The American Academy of Family Physicians advises:

• Taking too much medication can be dangerous and will not provide faster pain relief.
• Check with your doctor if you take a prescription drug to be sure it won't react badly with the pain medication.
• Do not take more than one type of pain reliever at a time, unless your doctor recommends so.
• If you're taking another medication, make sure it does not contain a pain reliever. This type of combination could lead to an overdose.